Poultry Farming in the tropics

Poultry products are a very rich source of highly nutritious substances indispensable in the human diet. Raising chickens can be a good way to bring in some revenue for farming communities in the tropics. Poultry farming is also attractive because it can produce quick results and does not require much capital investment. Farming techniques are relatively simple and the products have a market because they can be sold in small quantities such as a few eggs or birds. In spite of these advantages, there has been little increase over the last few years in poultry production in Africa. One of the reasons for this is the predominance of traditional production methods. More modern, large-scale production is expected, however, in view of high population growth and the sharp rise in the price of other meat products, especially in urban areas. It has also been observed that there is a high preference for poultry in these regions. The publication of this manual on poultry farming is therefore well-timed. It is a handy guide to all aspects of poultry farming in the tropics. The book includes a thorough study of the anatomy and physiology of poultry as well as information on how to choose strains and produce hybrids. Considering the damage caused by epidemics such as Newcastle disease which is capable of wiping out whole flocks of birds in a few days or even hours, the section on diseases looks at prevention and treatment, including hygiene and vaccination programmes. A table of the main microbial infections with the causes, principal symptoms and treatments, is a special bonus. In poultry keeping as in other enterprises, good management is crucial. The final chapters of this book therefore give detailed advice on how to manage a poultry farm. There is also a section on rearing guinea fowl and ducks, which includes a part on integrated duck/fish production. This book is written in textbook style with clear illustrations and is suitable for agricultural students and extension workers as well as those directly involved in tropical poultry farming. The manual was originally published in 1983 by the Institut d'Elevage et de Medecine Veterinaire des Pays Tropicaux, and the English version is a joint CTA/CAB International publication. 1987 Manual of poultry production in the tropics. CAB International, Oxon, 118 pp. ISBN 0 85198 590 4 Available from: Technical Division CTA Postbus 380 6700 AJ Wageningen The NetherlandsManual of poultry production in the tropics. 1987. CAB International, Oxon, 118 pp. ISBN 0 85198 590 4 Available from: Technical Division CTA Postbus 380 6700 AJ Wageningen The Netherland