Evaluation of Some Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Male and Semale Local Duck and Geese at Different Ages

Abstract

The study was conducted at Duck husbandry farm Animal Resources Department/College of Agriculture/University of Basrah. It aimed at the evaluation of some physical and chemical of male and female local duck and geese carcasses at different ages. A total of 120 one day old chicks from both sexes were used (60 ducks at 60 geese). Samples of birds were slaughtered at the age of (4, 12, 24) weeks. Relative weights of breast and leg cuts, skin and fat, muscles and bones were recorded. Chemical analysis and pH for breast and leg muscles meat were also calculated while they were fresh or after 45 and 90 days of storing under -180Cº. The results revealed a significant increase in geese both sexes carcasses relative weights in comparison with those of ducks. There was no significant differences between males and females geese breast and leg muscles relative weights. There was significant decrease in leg relative weight in exceeding age of both duck and geese carcasses. On contrary breast weight increased significantly.