Body Weight Prediction from Linear Body Measurements in Sudanese Large Native Chicken

Sudanese chicken is characterized by wide phenotypic variation, they are also well-adapted to the local environment, playing a vital role in food security. Current study aims to predict the best equation that estimates body weight in Sudanese native chickens using liner body measurements. Relationship between body weight (BW) and various linear body measurements was investigated in 120 adult Sudanese native chickens. The measurements taken included body length (BL), chest circumference (CC), shank length (SL), and wing span (WS). The data were then subjected to Pearson correlation analysis to determine their association with BW. Findings showed that all linear body measurements of native chickens were positively and significantly (p < .01) correlated with BW. The highest coefficient was CC (= .522), followed by BL and SL with moderate coefficients ( = .458, .415) respectively, while wing span had the lowest correlation coefficient ( = .252). Regression equations of linear body measurements with BW showed a positive coefficient of determination ranging from 27 to 34.9 %. Stepwise analyses showed CC as the best single predictor ( =.273), while inclusion of the other three predictors in the equation raised up to .349. this model confirmed chest circumference as the most reliable predictor thus providing smallholder farmers with a simple, low-cost tool for live-bird selection and management.