Phenotypic characterization of indigenous chickens reared under an extensive production system in Namibia

This study characterized indigenous chickens reared in the four selected Northern regions of Namibia, namely Omusati, Oshana, Ohangwena and Kavango East. A total of 233 indigenous chickens were investigated for plumage colour and type, comb types, shank colour and body weight. Plumage colour, shank colour and comb type differed significantly across regions (p < 0.001), whereas feather types did not (p = 0.294). Plumage colour showed the highest diversity (H′ = 2.05), while feather type showed the lowest (H′ = 0.31). Most indigenous chickens had normal feathers (97.9%), with frizzle (1.7%) and silky (0.4%) types being rare. Predominant plumage colours were multicoloured (27.5%), black–white (15.9%), black (14.6%) and barred (12.0%). Black-red and red were the least common plumage colours. Single comb type was more prevalent than the rose and pea (58.4%, 33.9% and 7.7%, respectively). Yellow (37.8%) and black (34.8%) shank colours were the most common. Naked neck, feathered shank, crested and dwarfism appeared sporadically. The mean body weight was 1.40 ± 0.53 kg, with males at 1.76 ± 0.06 kg and females at 1.25 ± 0.04 kg. Phenotypic variation observed in indigenous chickens in the study areas provides valuable baseline information for selection and breeding improvement programs using indigenous genetic resources.