Journal of Biology and Nature

A study was conducted to evaluate the reproductive and haematological characteristics of indigenous chickens reared under backyard systems in Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala, India. Data were collected from 64 households using recall-based surveys and direct blood sampling. Key reproductive traits such as age at sexual maturity, clutch size, number of clutches per cycle, egg production per cycle, and length of broodiness were documented. Most hens reached sexual maturity between 22 – 26 weeks, laid predominantly light brown eggs, and exhibited strong broodiness, with a typical broody phase lasting 15 – 28 days. Clutch size predominantly ranged between 5 – 8 eggs, and total egg production per cycle commonly fell within 11 – 15 eggs. In addition, a total of 32 birds, comprising eight males and eight females from each of the Kannur and Kozhikode districts were subjected to haematological analysis. Significantly higher red blood cell count (P<0.01), haemoglobin concentration (P<0.05), and packed cell volume (P<0.01) were observed in males compared to females. Males also had lower lymphocyte (P<0.001) and higher heterophil (P<0.001) counts than females. These findings provide baseline information on the productivity and physiological status of indigenous chicken of Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala and can support targeted genetic improvement and conservation programs.