A review on diseases and management problems affecting reproductive performance in semi-intensive raised local guinea fowl (Numida meleagris)

Abstract

Investigations based on field records and experiences at the Guinea Fowl Production Research Unit of the Kainji Lake Research Institute have shown that some diseases management conditions which include: yolksac, fungal infections, collibacillosis, helminthiasis, management problems in particular inbreeding, moulting, heatstroke and nutritional deficiencies affect significantly the reproductive organs, egg laying and hatchability.  The direct or indirect effects due to lameness, starvation, pyrexia, diarrhoea, inflammation of reproductive organs, weight losses and changes in physiology and behaviour of birds also contribute to poor reproductive performance.  The various effects of these major disease problems are highlighted.