Assessing the performance of commercial layer birds on selected farms in Wakiso district

Abstract

The study was conducted with an aim of characterising the performance of commercial layer birds and the different farms of Wakiso district and to investigate the factors that influence the performance of these birds. Random sampling was used to select poultry farms and respondents in the study and a total of 40 farms were sampled from Wakiso district. Structured questionnaires, participatory observations and open discussions with farmers were used to collect data on the farms. The major management system carried out was the deep litter system as recorded by 80% of farmers carrying it out beside the other rearing systems. Proper feeding was majorly pointed out in practices that maximize the percentage lay of birds as recorded by 50% of farmers. Most farmers pointed out that their birds start laying at 18weeks of age and were mostly laid off at 71to75 weeks of age as evidenced by 65% of farmers; however the latter was influenced by a number of factors and management practices. I would recommend farmers to attend more of agricultural exhibitions and trade shows so as to learn more on how to improve the performance of their birds and how to easily access market for their ready products