WEIGHT DATA OF SLOW GROWING CHICKENS ON A FARM IN ABADIÂNIA - GO

Abstract

The free-range chicken production system is based on raising commercial birds for meat production, using slow-growing strains in a semi-extensive system. However, the literature provides limited information on the production of free-range type chickens. The aim of this research was to gather data on average initial weight, daily weight gain, and weight at 14, 21, 35, 63, and 70 days for Naked Neck chickens of the Label Rouge® lineage, produced on a farm in the municipality of Abadiânia, and to compare the production history with the lineage's management guide. Fifty-six batches produced between January 2018 and June 2024 were analyzed, with initial weights ranging from 38.11 to 39.78 grams. At 70 days, 62.50% of the batches reached the weight target set in the management guide, while 37.50% did not meet the recommended weight standard. Regarding daily weight gain (DWG), although this variable is not specified in the manual, the evaluated batches showed variations from 30.61 to 35.85 grams/bird at 70 days. The results indicated that, despite the good genetic standard of the birds, they can reach weights above or below the recommended levels, due to the different management conditions found on each farm.