Relative performance of local non-descript ducks under traditional and improved management practices

The perfonnance of local ducks under extensive system with traditional management was compared with that of improved management practices from 1 to 58 weeks of age. A total of 8 farmers rearing local ducks under extensive system of management were selected. Four fanners selected, maintained ducks on each type of package of management practices. The improved production packages followed were standard brooding up to 4 weeks of age, supplementation of trace minerals and vitamins, vaccination against duck plague, dewonning and litter management. Improved management practices resulted in significantly (P<0.05) better livability during growing period, and egg production and hatchability during laying period compared to that on traditional management practices.