Description of native chicken in Belgaum Division of Karnataka State

The production of native chickens in India constitutes approximately 42% of the total chicken production and contributes around 24% to the overall meat and egg production. Identifying and characterizing nondescript indigenous chicken breeds is crucial. A recent comprehensive study was conducted in the Belgaum division of Karnataka State, India, to address this need. Hatching eggs were sourced from 180 villages across Bijapur, Belgaum, and Dharwad districts within the Belgaum division. These eggs were then hatched and reared separately using the deep litter system and following standard management practices. Phenotypic characterization was conducted according to NBAGR guidelines when the birds reached 20 weeks of age. The average shank length of male birds ranged from 93.66±0.55 to 96.91±1.72 mm, while in female birds, it ranged between 81.53±0.65 to 83.08±0.31 mm. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed among the three districts studied. Similarly, the average keel length of male birds varied from 114.04±0.67 to 123.75±1.67 mm, and in female birds, it ranged from 112.79±0.33 to 119.90±0.50 mm, with significant differences noted (P<0.05). The average breast angle of male birds ranged from 79.29±0.22° to 80.85±0.25°, while in female birds, it varied between 77.78±0.29° to 81.06±0.39°, showing significant differences (P<0.05). Furthermore, the average body weight at 20 weeks for male birds ranged from 1577.58±11.99 to 1669.04±9.20 g, and for female birds, it ranged from 1054.11±5.25 to 1063.43±4.92 g, also displaying significant differences (P<0.05).