STATUS OF DUCK PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT IN SOUTH WEST NIGERIA

Abstract: In Nigeria, duck production is less favoured compared to other poultry species due to perceived economic unviability. This study examines the production patterns, socio-economic characteristics, and management practices of duck farming in southwestern Nigeria, including Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo States, where poultry farming is prominent. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 60 respondents from each state’s eastern, western, and central senatorial districts, or northern, central and southern senatorial districts as the case may be, totaling 360 respondents, who are duck farmers. Primary data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics with frequency counts and percentages. The findings reveal a predominance of female farmers (80%), with most respondents being under 50 years of age. Additionally, 72.2% were married, and 82.6% were educated. The predominant flock size was 1-5 ducks (53.3%), with a significant reliance on household labour. Most farmers preferred local Muscovy ducks (92.2%) managed extensively (36.5%) due to their adaptability and lower maintenance costs. Most female ducks began laying eggs at 7 months of age (46.7%), with an incubation period of 30 days (35.6%). Most respondents provided feed for the ducks, primarily grains (18.9%), along with water. A significant proportion (65.6%) raised ducks for cash. The study highlights the untapped potential of duck farming in Nigeria due to limited awareness and cultural taboos, it recommended increased awareness, improved breeds, and better practices to boost productivity and food security. Keywords: Adaptability, Demographics, Flock size, Food security, Indigenous breeds, Muscovy ducks, Scavenging, Small scale, Taboos, Veterinarians. Title: STATUS OF DUCK PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT IN SOUTH WEST NIGERIA Author: Folorunso, O.R., Sule, K., Bakre, A.A. International Journal of Novel Research in Life Sciences ISSN 2394-966X Vol. 11, Issue 4, July 2024 - August 2024 Page No: 40-47 Novelty Journals Website: www.noveltyjournals.com Published Date: 15-August-2024 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13325353 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/STATUS%20OF%20DUCK%20PRODUCTION-15082024-3.pdf