Sex and Strain Effects on Hematology Parameters of Broiler Chickens at Makurdi

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of sex and strain on haematology of broiler chickens in Makurdi, Benue State. A total of one hundred and sixty (160) day old chicks of two commercial broiler strains (80 each of Arbor-acre and Hubbard) were used for the study. The birds were divided into four (4) groups based on the strains and sexes designated M1, F1,M2 and F2 for Arbor acre male strain, Arbor acre female strain, Hubbard male strain and Hubbard female strain respectively. The birds were reared for a period of 56 days (8 weeks). At the end of the 56th day, blood samples were collected from the experimental group and analysed. The results indicate significant (p< 0.05) effect of strain on blood platelet and significant (p< 0.05) effect between sex and strain were observed for white blood cells, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration. The values obtained in this study fall within the normal ranges recommended for healthy broilers. It is therefore concluded that the two strains of broilers investigated can be successfully raised in Makurdi environment without adverse effect on their health since their haematological values compared favourably with standard reference values. Values obtained in this study could also serve as a baseline data of these strains in this environment.