Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Economic Aspects of Pekin Duck Growing in Dhamrai Area of Bangladesh

ABSTRACT: White Pekin ducks are a valuable addition to the poultry industry in Bangladesh with their adaptability, rapid growth rate, and excellent meat quality. This study aimed to evaluate the growth performance, meat quality, and socio-economic aspects of White Pekin ducks in the Dhamrai area of Bangladesh. The study was carried out between January and April 2024 by distributing a total of 250 one-day-old Pekin ducklings among 25 selected farmers. Farmers were chosen based on their willingness, capacity, and adequate housing facilities to observe the growth characteristics, carcass traits, and economic values of Pekin ducks. The farmers were mainly middle-aged (46 years) with an average family size of 4.16 and had farming experience of 9 years. Livestock and poultry rearing were the primary occupation for 72% of farmers, and Pekin duck farming was pursued for both household consumption and extra income. The ducks showed consistent growth, increasing from 53.17 g at day-old to 1812.82 g at 9 weeks, with an average daily gain of 82.97 g. At the marketing age (10 weeks), the average dressing percentage was 74. The carcasses of male and female ducks differed slightly in terms of organ and fat distribution, with males generally had heavier internal organs and giblets, while females had slightly higher fat (2.10%). The nutrient content of breast and thigh muscles showed differences in water and fat content, with males generally having a higher dry matter of 29.13%. The Benefit-Cost ratio of Pekin duck farming was 1.59; however, the majority of farmers faced constraints due to higher feed prices and a lack of quality ducklings for Pekin duck production. Therefore, improving management practices, biosecurity measures, and access to better inputs could enhance the profitability and sustainability of Pekin duck farming.

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