Growth Performance and Hematology of Cockerel Starters Fed Diets Containing Neem Leaf Meal

Abstract

A 7-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of neem leaf meal (NLM) on growth performance and hematological variables of cockerels. Sun–dried neem leaves were milled, used to formulate seven diets which contained NLM at 0% (control), 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, 10.0%, 12.5% and 15.0%, and used to feed 336 Isa white day-old cockerels. There were 48 birds and 4 replicates per treatment in a completely randomized design. Water and feed were given ad-libitum, and other necessary management practices were observed. Data on feed intake and weight gain were taken during the experiment. At the end of the experiment, blood was collected from 2 cockerels/ replicate and analyzed. Results showed that final weight, weight gain and feed intake were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by NLM treatments, values reduced with higher levels of NLM in the cockerels’ diets. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in hematological variables; erythrocyte sedimentation rate, packed cell volume, red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, Mean cell hemoglobin concentration, mean cell hemoglobin, mean cell volume, Lymphocyte, neutrophil and basophil values recorded. In conclusion, the use of neem leaf meal in cockerel production is not encouraged at high levels.