Poultry farming is an important aspect of agriculture in Kenya, contributing significantly to the economy and food security of the country. The most commonly reared poultry birds in Kenya are chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese. However, there are several rare poultry breeds in Kenya that are gaining popularity among farmers and breeders due to their unique characteristics and potential for commercial production. In this article, we will discuss some of these rare poultry breeds in Kenya, their characteristics, and potential for commercial production.

A. Kuroiler chicken breed

The Kuroiler chicken is a dual-purpose breed that originated in India and was introduced to Kenya in the early 2000s. It is a crossbreed of Rhode Island Red and White Leghorn breeds and is known for its fast growth rate, high meat yield, and high egg production. Kuroiler chickens are also resistant to common poultry diseases, making them an ideal breed for small-scale and commercial poultry farming.

Kuroiler chicken farming is rapidly gaining popularity in Kenya due to its numerous benefits compared to traditional chicken breeds. This breed was developed in India by crossing a broiler and an indigenous chicken, with the aim of creating a breed that is hardy, resistant to diseases, and produces more meat and eggs. In this article, we will explore the benefits of Kuroiler chicken farming, how to start a Kuroiler chicken farm in Kenya, and the challenges facing Kuroiler chicken farmers in the country.

Benefits of Kuroiler Chicken Farming in Kenya

1. High egg and meat production: Kuroiler chickens are known for their high egg and meat production. They start laying eggs at 5 months and can lay up to 200 eggs per year. This is higher than most traditional breeds such as the Kienyeji, which lays between 60 to 120 eggs per year. The Kuroiler chicken also grows faster and can attain a weight of 2kg in 4 months, making it ideal for meat production.
2. Hardy and disease-resistant: Kuroiler chickens are highly resistant to diseases such as Newcastle, coccidiosis, and Marek’s disease. They can also survive in harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat and cold, making them ideal for outdoor farming.
3. Low input costs: Kuroiler chickens do not require expensive feeds and can feed on a wide variety of feeds such as kitchen scraps, grass, insects, and grains. This reduces the cost of production, making it more affordable for small-scale farmers.
4. Sustainable farming: Kuroiler chickens are an environmentally sustainable option since they require fewer resources to produce the same amount of meat and eggs compared to traditional breeds.

Starting a Kuroiler Chicken Farm in Kenya

1. Selecting the breed: The first step in starting a Kuroiler chicken farm is to select the breed. The Kuroiler breed is available in Kenya from several hatcheries, and you can choose between day-old chicks or mature birds.
2. Housing: Kuroiler chickens require a suitable housing structure to protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions. The housing should be well-ventilated and have sufficient lighting.
3. Feeding: Kuroiler chickens can feed on a wide range of feeds such as kitchen scraps, grains, and insects. However, it is important to ensure that the chickens have access to clean water and a balanced diet.
4. Disease control: Although Kuroiler chickens are highly disease-resistant, it is important to vaccinate them against common diseases such as Newcastle and Marek’s disease. You should also practice good hygiene practices such as regularly cleaning the housing and providing clean water.

Challenges Facing Kuroiler Chicken Farmers in Kenya

1. Lack of information: There is a lack of information on Kuroiler chicken farming in Kenya, which makes it difficult for farmers to make informed decisions.
2. Limited market access: Although Kuroiler chicken meat and eggs are in high demand, many farmers face challenges accessing markets.
3. Poultry diseases: Poultry diseases such as Newcastle and coccidiosis can have a devastating effect on Kuroiler chicken farms, leading to significant losses.

Kuroiler chicken farming is a viable option for small-scale farmers in Kenya looking to diversify their farming activities. The breed is hardy, disease-resistant, and requires low input costs, making it an ideal option for sustainable farming. However, farmers should be aware of the challenges facing Kuroiler chicken farming, such as limited market access and disease control. With proper management practices, Kuroiler chicken farming can be a profitable venture for small-scale farmers in Kenya.

B. Naked Neck chicken breed

The Naked Neck chicken, also known as the Transylvanian Naked Neck or the Turken, is a rare breed that originated in Transylvania, Romania. It is characterized by its bare neck and head, which are covered in wrinkles and loose skin. Naked Neck chickens are known for their high meat yield and resistance to heat and cold, making them suitable for farming in different climatic conditions.

Naked Neck chickens, also known as Turkens, are a unique breed of chickens that have gained popularity among poultry farmers in Kenya due to their adaptability to a wide range of climatic conditions, high meat production, and disease resistance. This breed is also known for their unique featherless neck, which makes them stand out from other chicken breeds.

Naked Neck chicken farming in Kenya has gained significant momentum in recent years due to the growing demand for poultry products, including meat and eggs. Farmers in Kenya are now shifting towards commercial poultry farming, and Naked Neck chicken farming has become a lucrative venture due to their high productivity and disease resistance.

One of the advantages of Naked Neck chicken farming in Kenya is their ability to thrive in different climatic conditions. They are highly adaptable to both hot and cold weather, making them an excellent choice for farmers in various regions of the country. Additionally, they are resistant to common poultry diseases, making them low maintenance and cost-effective to rear.

Naked Neck chickens are also known for their fast growth rate and high meat production. These chickens have a good feed conversion ratio, meaning they can convert feed into meat quickly, making them an ideal breed for meat production. They have a mature weight of between 2.5-3.5 kg and can attain this weight in just 3-4 months.

When it comes to egg production, Naked Neck chickens are not the best layers, but they still produce a decent amount of eggs. On average, they lay about 150-200 eggs per year, which is lower than other breeds such as Leghorns or Rhode Island Reds.

To start Naked Neck chicken farming in Kenya, a farmer needs to select good quality birds that are disease-free and have good genetic traits. The birds should be kept in a clean and well-ventilated coop, with adequate space and access to clean water and feed. The coop should also be protected from predators such as snakes, rats, and birds of prey.

Feeding is a crucial aspect of Naked Neck chicken farming in Kenya. These birds require a balanced diet that provides all the essential nutrients required for growth and development. The diet should consist of a mix of grains, vegetables, and protein sources such as fishmeal or soybean meal.

In terms of marketing, Naked Neck chicken products are in high demand in Kenya, especially in urban areas. Farmers can sell their products directly to consumers or supply to supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants.

Naked Neck chicken farming in Kenya is a lucrative venture due to their adaptability to different climatic conditions, disease resistance, and high meat production. With proper management practices, farmers can reap significant benefits from rearing these birds. However, it’s essential to note that like any other business, Naked Neck chicken farming requires commitment, hard work, and dedication to succeed.

C. Guinea fowl Poultry Breed

Guinea fowl is a rare game bird that is native to Africa. It is characterized by its unique feather patterns and loud vocalizations. Guinea fowl is known for its lean meat, which is low in cholesterol and high in protein. It is also resistant to common poultry diseases and predators, making it an ideal bird for free-range farming.

Guinea fowl chicken farming is gaining popularity in Kenya, thanks to its numerous benefits. Unlike traditional chicken farming, guinea fowl chicken farming is a low-cost and low-maintenance enterprise that requires less space and less feed. Moreover, guinea fowl meat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy alternative to other meats.

Herein we will delve into the details of guinea fowl chicken farming in Kenya, including its benefits, challenges, and how to start a successful guinea fowl chicken farm.

Benefits of Guinea Fowl Chicken Farming

Guinea fowl chicken farming has numerous benefits, which include:

1. Low-cost of Production: Guinea fowl chicken farming is a low-cost enterprise compared to traditional chicken farming. The birds require less space, feed, and medical attention, which translates to lower production costs.
2. High-Protein Meat: Guinea fowl meat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to other meats. This attribute makes it popular among health-conscious consumers.
3. Pest Control: Guinea fowl birds are excellent pest controllers. They consume insects, snails, and other pests that destroy crops. This makes them ideal for smallholder farmers who practice agroforestry or backyard farming.
4. Source of Income: Guinea fowl chicken farming is a source of income for farmers. The birds are sold for meat, eggs, and as breeding stock.

Challenges of Guinea Fowl Chicken Farming

Guinea fowl chicken farming has its challenges, which include:

1. Disease Outbreaks: Guinea fowl birds are susceptible to diseases, such as Newcastle disease, coccidiosis, and fowl pox. These diseases can wipe out an entire flock and lead to financial losses.
2. Predators: Guinea fowl birds are preyed upon by predators, such as snakes, foxes, and hawks. Farmers have to take measures to protect their birds from predators.
3. Low Egg Production: Guinea fowl birds have a low egg production rate compared to traditional chicken breeds. This can be a disadvantage for farmers who are mainly interested in egg production.

Starting a Successful Guinea Fowl Chicken Farm in Kenya

To start a successful guinea fowl chicken farm, follow these steps:

1. Choose a Suitable Location: Guinea fowl birds require a quiet, clean, and well-ventilated environment. Choose a location that is free from noise, pollution, and predators.
2. Construct a Suitable House: Guinea fowl birds require a simple and spacious house. The house should be well-ventilated and free from drafts. The flooring should be easy to clean and dry. Provide nesting boxes for egg laying.
3. Purchase Healthy Birds: Purchase healthy birds from a reputable breeder. The birds should be vaccinated against common diseases.
4. Provide Adequate Feed: Guinea fowl birds require a balanced diet that is high in protein. Provide them with a mix of grains, seeds, and insects. Supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals.
5. Monitor the Birds: Monitor the birds regularly for signs of disease, stress, or injury. Take appropriate measures to address any issues promptly.
6. Market the Products: Market the guinea fowl meat, eggs, and breeding stock to local restaurants, supermarkets, and other farmers. You can also market your products online through social media and e-commerce platforms.

Guinea fowl chicken farming is a low-cost, low-maintenance enterprise that is gaining popularity in Kenya. It offers numerous benefits, including high-protein meat, pest control, and a source of income for farmers. However, it also has its challenges, such as disease outbreaks, predators, and low egg production. To start a successful guinea fowl chicken farm, choose a suitable location

D. Pekin duck Poultry Breed

The Pekin duck is a domesticated duck breed that originated in China. It is characterized by its large size, white feathers, and orange beak. Pekin ducks are known for their high meat yield, which is lean and flavorful. They are also good layers of large white eggs, making them suitable for both meat and egg production.

Pekin ducks are a breed of domesticated ducks that originated from China. They are known for their white plumage, large size, and high egg-laying capacity. Pekin duck farming is becoming increasingly popular in Kenya, especially in the urban and peri-urban areas. This is due to the high demand for duck meat and eggs, which are considered healthier and tastier than chicken meat and eggs. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of Pekin duck farming in Kenya, including the benefits, challenges, and best practices.

Benefits of Pekin duck farming:

1. High egg-laying capacity: Pekin ducks are known to lay up to 200 eggs per year, which is significantly higher than most chicken breeds.
2. Fast growth rate: Pekin ducks have a fast growth rate and can reach market weight (around 2.5-3 kg) within 8-12 weeks, making them an excellent choice for commercial farming.
3. High meat quality: Pekin duck meat is considered tastier and healthier than chicken meat due to its low fat content and high protein content.
4. Low maintenance: Pekin ducks are relatively low maintenance and require minimal care and attention.
5. High market demand: There is a high demand for duck meat and eggs in Kenya, especially in urban and peri-urban areas.

Challenges of Pekin duck farming:

1. Disease outbreaks: Ducks are susceptible to a wide range of diseases, including avian influenza, Newcastle disease, and duck viral enteritis. Disease outbreaks can lead to high mortality rates and significant economic losses.
2. Predators: Pekin ducks are vulnerable to predators such as foxes, eagles, and snakes. Farmers need to ensure that their ducks are adequately protected from predators.
3. Water management: Ducks require access to clean water for drinking and bathing, which can be challenging to manage, especially during the dry season.
4. Feed management: Pekin ducks require a balanced diet that is high in protein and energy. Farmers need to ensure that their ducks have access to quality feed at all times.
5. Market access: While there is a high demand for duck meat and eggs in Kenya, farmers may face challenges in accessing markets and getting fair prices for their products.

Best practices for Pekin duck farming:

1. Housing: Ducks require a clean, dry, and well-ventilated housing area that protects them from predators and adverse weather conditions.
2. Water management: Ducks require access to clean water for drinking and bathing. Farmers need to ensure that their ducks have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
3. Feed management: Pekin ducks require a balanced diet that is high in protein and energy. Farmers need to ensure that their ducks have access to quality feed at all times.
4. Disease management: Farmers need to implement disease prevention measures such as regular cleaning and disinfecting of the housing area, vaccination against common diseases, and quarantine of new birds.
5. Market access: Farmers need to identify potential markets for their products and build relationships with buyers. They should also consider value addition, such as processing duck meat into sausages or smoked products, to increase their market opportunities.

Pekin duck farming is a viable and profitable venture in Kenya, especially in urban and peri-urban areas. The benefits of Pekin duck farming include high egg-laying capacity, fast growth rate, high meat quality, low maintenance, and high market demand. However, farmers need to be aware of the challenges, including disease outbreaks, predators, water and feed management, and market access. By implementing best practices in housing, water and feed management, disease management, and market access, farmers can achieve success and profitability

E. Silver Laced Wyandotte Poultry Breed

The Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken is a rare breed that originated in the United States. It is characterized by its black and white feather patterns and rose comb. Silver Laced Wyandotte chickens are known for their high egg production, good meat quality, and calm disposition. They are also cold-hardy and adapt well to different climatic conditions, making them ideal for free-range farming.

Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken farming in Kenya is a promising industry that has been growing in popularity in recent years. These chickens are a popular breed due to their beautiful appearance and their ability to lay large, brown eggs. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken farming in Kenya, including breed characteristics, housing requirements, feeding, and health management.

Breed Characteristics

The Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken is a medium-sized breed that has a unique, lacy pattern on its feathers. They have a calm and docile temperament, making them easy to handle and manage. This breed is also known for its hardiness, making it an excellent choice for farmers in Kenya, who may be faced with extreme weather conditions.

One of the key advantages of Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken farming in Kenya is their egg-laying capacity. These chickens can lay up to 280 large, brown eggs per year, making them a profitable investment for farmers looking to start a poultry business.

Housing Requirements

Proper housing is essential for the health and well-being of Silver Laced Wyandotte chickens. The coop should provide adequate ventilation, protection from predators, and enough space for each chicken. It is recommended that each chicken has at least 3-4 square feet of floor space in the coop, and an additional 8-10 square feet of outdoor space.

The coop should also have nesting boxes for the chickens to lay their eggs, as well as perches for them to roost on at night. The coop should be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and parasites that can harm the chickens.

Feeding

Proper nutrition is essential for the health and productivity of Silver Laced Wyandotte chickens. They should be fed a balanced diet that includes a mixture of grains, protein, and vitamins. A commercial poultry feed that is specifically formulated for laying hens is a good choice, as it contains all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions.

In addition to commercial feed, chickens can also be fed with a variety of greens, fruits, and vegetables. This not only provides additional nutrition but also helps to keep the chickens occupied and stimulated.

Health Management

Regular health checks are essential for the health and productivity of Silver Laced Wyandotte chickens. They should be checked for signs of illness or injury on a daily basis. Common health issues that can affect chickens include respiratory infections, parasites, and nutritional deficiencies.

Preventive measures, such as vaccination and regular deworming, can help to prevent the spread of diseases and parasites. It is also important to provide clean water and a clean environment to prevent the spread of bacteria and parasites.

Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken farming in Kenya is a promising industry that offers many benefits. These chickens are hardy, productive, and have a beautiful appearance that is sure to attract customers. Proper housing, feeding, and health management are essential for the success of any poultry farming venture, and farmers who take the time to invest in these areas are sure to reap the rewards. With the right care and management, Silver Laced Wyandotte chicken farming can be a profitable and rewarding venture for farmers in Kenya.

F. Silkies Poultry Breed

Silkies are a unique breed of chicken that originated in China. They are characterized by their fluffy feathers, which have a silky texture, and their blue-black skin and bones. Silkies are known for their high meat yield, good egg production, and broodiness, making them ideal for both meat and egg production and as brooding hens for other poultry breeds.

Silkies, also known as Silkie chickens, are a unique and distinct breed of chicken that is native to China. They are highly valued for their unique physical appearance, including their fluffy, silky feathers and blue-black skin color. Silkies are also prized for their calm and friendly temperament, making them a popular choice for backyard chicken farming in Kenya and other parts of the world.

Silkies are small in size, with adult birds weighing between 1.5 and 3.5 pounds. They are a slow-growing breed, with full maturity taking up to 9 months. Silkies are also non-aggressive, making them easy to handle and a great choice for families with young children.

Silkie chicken farming has become increasingly popular in Kenya due to their adaptability to different climatic conditions and their ease of care. In Kenya, Silkies are raised primarily for their meat and eggs. They are also kept as pets due to their friendly nature and unique appearance.

When it comes to starting a Silkie chicken farm in Kenya, there are a few important factors to consider. The first is housing. Silkies need a secure and safe coop to protect them from predators such as foxes and birds of prey. The coop should also be well-ventilated, with enough space for the birds to move around comfortably.

Feeding is another important aspect of Silkie chicken farming. Silkies require a balanced diet that includes a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. They can be fed a combination of commercial feed and kitchen scraps, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Silkies are also known for their broodiness, which means they have a strong maternal instinct and will often sit on their eggs to hatch them. This makes them ideal for hatching eggs naturally. However, for commercial farming, artificial incubation may be used to hatch eggs more efficiently.

Silkie chicken farming in Kenya can be a profitable venture for small-scale farmers, as the demand for their unique and delicious meat and eggs continues to grow. In addition, their friendly and docile temperament makes them a great addition to any backyard or farm, providing a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the rare poultry breeds discussed in this article offer unique characteristics and potential for commercial production in Kenya. As farmers and breeders seek to diversify their production and meet the increasing demand for poultry products, these breeds offer an opportunity to achieve these goals while also promoting biodiversity and preserving rare and indigenous poultry breeds.