Broiler Production Technology Practices Among Farmers in Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State Nigeria

Broiler production, management system, marketing were investigated among broiler producers in Jalingo local government area. A snow ball method was employed to select and interview 62 respondents using open ended questionnaires. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result indicated that broiler farmers are diverse in livelihoods and production is characterized by small scale farmers with 159 and 1,400 chickens annually. The household size of 1 and 5 (67.8 %), followed by 6 and 10 (20.90%) are frequently encountered Low stocking density, High population of youths will ensure desirability of broiler production technology information that will scale production at the farm level. Experience in broiler production ranged from 1 to 20 years. Majority of broiler farmers had between 1 and 5 years’ experience. Broiler farmers had little access to extension services and credit facilities. The market age for broilers range between 5 and 9 months and mortality rates were high, with an average 10.2% and ranged 32 to 59. Brooding of chicks took place in rooms inside human dwellings. Broilers farmers (93%) practiced deep litter system. The majority (82%) of broiler farmers sell live chicken (82%) to the market, dressed whole broiler and cut up chicken parts are least important. Pricing is by feeling the weight (94%) of the broiler (heavy or light). Broiler production in Jalingo is constrained by high mortality due to biotic and abiotic diseases (heat and cold stresses). Policy makers should ensure access to funds, extension services and setting up of hatcheries. Research in favour of development of poultry breeds that can adapt heat and cold stresses should be encouraged.