Phenotypic Characteristics of Indigenous Chicken in Awi Zone, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

This study aimed to describe the phenotypic characteristics of indigenous chickens in three districts of Awi Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia. Nine qualitative and 12 quantitative traits from 486 chickens were considered for morphological parameters. The General Linear Model procedures (PROC GLM) of SAS 9.0 software to analyze body measurements, considering factors like agro-ecology, sex, and their interactions. Mean comparisons were conducted using Duncan’s multiple range test, and correlation analysis was applied to examine relationships between quantitative traits. The study revealed that 96.1% of the chickens had feathers, while 3.9% were naked-neck. The most common plumage colors were red (37.7%), white (19.8%), black (10.1%), Gebsema (17.3%), Teterma (8.8%), and multi-colored (6.4%). All measured quantitative traits in the study area showed statistically significant differences (P<0.001) between male and female chickens, with males displaying greater body weights and sizes than females. The average body weight of indigenous chicken was 1.67±0.31 kg for males and 1.47±0.29 kg for females. The overall mean body length was 37.09±1.25 cm, and this did not vary significantly (P>0.05) across different agro-ecological zones. Male chickens had an average body length of 37.37±1.47 cm, compared to 36.95±1.10 cm for females. The study found significant phenotypic variations among indigenous chickens across different agro-ecological zones. It recommends further genetic studies using molecular markers were needed to assess genetic diversity and relationships within these populations.