Indian Journal of Poultry Science

Oguntunji, A.O., Adeola, A.C., Makram, A., Putra, W.P.B. and Oriye, L.O. 2020. Phenotypic characterization of the Nigerian Mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos). Indian Journal of Poultry Science, 55(3): 169-177.

Abundant diversities inherent in species are indispensable genetic raw materials for identification, selection and improvement of farm animals by breeders. The present study reported phenotypic diversity in adult male (127) and female (545) Mallard ducks which were randomly sampled in North-west Nigeria. Phenotypic attributes were collected on their plumage, skin, shank, feet, bill and bean colours; and on presence or absence of coiled central tail feathers. Descriptive analysis of the qualitative data revealed the prevalence of black (33.33%) and brown (34.97%) plumages while all (100 %) sampled ducks were white-skinned. The predominant limb colours were black (31.35%) and yellow (33.48%) shank, while yellow (41.67%) and black (29.76%) were the prevalent feet colours. Analysis of mandible pigmentation indicated highest frequency of yellow-brown (32.89%) and black (33.33%) bills and black (75.30%) beans. In all the investigated qualitative traits except skin colour, sexual dichromatism was evident. Besides, variants of the investigated traits were more in females compared to males. Sexual dimorphism in plumage colour of Mallard ducks could be exploited for commercial production of sexed day-old ducklings.