Comparative performance of Kuzi Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) and its crosses with Khaki Campbell with respect to growth, phenotypic parameters and carcass quality

Abstract

To develop a suitable duck variety for egg type, one pilot study was undertaken to know the cross performance of Kuzi ducks with exotic duck breeds available in India. In the present study, comparative performance of Kuzi ducks and its two crosses with Khaki Campbell viz Kuzi × Khaki Campbell (DK) and Khaki Campbell × Kuzi (KD) were carried out with respect to juvenile growth, conformation, body colour and carcass quality. It was observed that significant differences exist between different genetic groups for body weights and Kuzi Ducks recorded higher body weights than its two crosses. The weight gain was more during two to seven weeks of age in all the three genetic groups irrespective of sex. Gain in body weight showed maximum gain during four to six weeks of age. This may be exploited in the future breeding programme. Multicolour plumage was dominant in all the three genetic groups. Shank colours were brown in most of the birds in DK and KD whereas pink in Kuzi. The study revealed that male ducks may be slaughtered at 12 weeks of age for meat purpose as thereafter they were not gain any significant body weight. It was found that the crosses of Kuzi and Khaki Campbell recorded lower body weight than Kuzi.

Keywords

• Body weight, Carcass quality, Cross, Kuzi duck, Plumage colour, Weight gain