Utilization of Vermicast as Supplementary Feeds for Hardening Darag Native Chicken

Abstract

Native chicken meat has always been preferred by consumers over that of commercial broilers due to its unique taste, distinct flavor and texture, presence of nutraceutical compounds (functional food), and lower fat content. . It is understood that the greatest item of expenses in raising of birds is the cost of feeds. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the potential of vermicast as a supplemental feed in the growth performance of hardened Darag native chicken based on average feed consumption, gain in weight, and feed conversion ratio. The study utilized four treatments with three replication: Treatment 1-100% pure commercial feeds; Treatment 2-95% pure commercial feeds mixed with 5% vermicast; Treatment 3- 90% pure commercial feeds mixed with 10% vermicast; and Treatment 4- 85% pure commercial feeds mixed with 15% vermicast. A total of 60 heads of hardened Darag native chicken were used in the study. The study was conducted at the Darag Research Project of CAPSU Dumarao, funded by LRDC from January 2020 to March 2020. The study revealed that vermicast supplementation to hardened Darag native chicken feeds can improve the feed consumption, gain in weight, and feed conversion ratio.