SMALL-SCALE NATIVE CHICKEN PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN MOUNTAIN BARANGAYS OF AYUNGON, NEGROS ORIENTAL, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study surveyed eighty (80) farmers in mountain barangays of Ayungon, Negros Oriental to determine the characteristics of small-scale native chicken production systems. The survey found that the age of small-scale native chicken farmers was 47.5 ± 15.1 years, with a household size of 3.7 ± 1.8, average landholdings of 0.38ha, and average monthly income of ₱10,285.80. They are considered subsistence farmers who grew crops to support their native chickens and other livestock, with the excess produce sold to augment their income. On average, a farmer raises 27 ± 16 heads of native chicken mostly under the free-range system with feed supplementation. Very few were practicing vaccination against Newcastle disease. The average egg production per hen per year was 38 eggs, with hatchability and survival rates of 67% and 71%, respectively. Their lack of technologically advanced farming techniques and equipment did not seem to hamper their production. Studies should be done to improve the performance of small-scale native chickens, beginning with the number of eggs laid per year. Any innovation introduced to farmers should consider their capabilities and the resources available to them in these production systems.