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Growth, food intake and development in broiler cockerels raised to maturity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 September 2010

Nicola J. Prescott
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Husbandry, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Science, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS18 7DU
C. M. Wathes
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Husbandry, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Science, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS18 7DU
J. K. Kirkwood
Affiliation:
Department of Pathology, University of Bristol Medical School, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD
G. C. Perry
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Husbandry, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Science, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS18 7DU
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Abstract

The food intake, growth and development of Ross broiler cockerels were recorded from 1 day old to maturity. At regular intervals, the body composition of these birds was determined and the eviscerated carcasses were chemically analysed. Allometric relationships of component weights and live weight were examined. Historical comparisons with fowl reared during the last 60 years did not reveal any significant changes in the pattern of development, despite faster absolute growth rates and heavier mature weights.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © British Society of Animal Science 1985

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