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This experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth performance characteristics of four-chicken genotypes managed
under deep litter rearing system. The study was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm (Poultry Unit) of the
Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. A total of 240 chicks were used for the study. The chicken
genotypes used were all pure breeds of indigenous normal feather, naked neck and frizzled feather while the forth genotype
was the Marshal breed, which is an exotic meat-type chicken. Each genotypes had 75 chicks, except for frizzled which was
15 in number. The birds were divided into four groups based on their genotypes which were normal feather, naked neck,
frizzle feather and marshal broiler chickens. Results showed that Marshal Broiler had the highest body weight among the
four genotypes. The highest final body weight among the indigenous chickens was recorded for naked neck (918.40g) while
the lowest value of 583.83g was recorded for normal feather genotype. The feed conversion ratio was best in naked neck
(chicken 2.15) and poorest in normal feather chicken (3.59). There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the growth
parameters of the experimental birds. Chest girth (CHG) generally had the highest mean value contribution to body
weights across the genotypes used in this study. Similarly, the linear body measurements of the chickens’ genotypes were
significantly different (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that growth performance of the experimental birds is dependent on
their genotypes. Among the linear body parameters measured, chest girth generally had the highest mean value.
Researchers should direct their research efforts towards the improvement of indigenous chicken through better
management practices for meat production. Naked neck and frizzled feather chickens can be considered for incorporation
into meat producing chicken genotypes in Nigeria.
Key words: Growth, performance, characteristics, indigenous chicken, genotypes