Phenotypic and genetic characteristics of TeIlicherry breed of chicken

Abstract

Tellicherry breed of chicken is found in Calicut district of Kerala. Survey was conducted in the breeding tract covering 18 villages~ 38 flocks and 209 birds. lnfonnation was recorded on flock Composition. managen1ent practices~ and morphological and performance parameters. Tellicherry birds are reared mainly for meat and are also considered to have Some medicinal value. Birds are kept in free range system. Plumage colour is black mixed with shinning bluish feathers. Comb was of single type. Average weight of cock was 1.62±O.16 kg and that of hen was 1.24±O.10 kg. Average annual egg production ranged from 60 to 80. Albuluen index, yolk index and haugh units were 0.061 ±O.007, 0.32±O.O17 and 69.07±3.48 respectively. Total 25 loci were utilized for data generation from 32 birds of Tellicherry breed from the breeding tract. The mean value of F1S was found to be 0.174 which indicates existence of population structure in this breed.