Characterisation and approaches to the conservation of the Nigerian local duck population: A Review

Research, development, and breeding of ducks in Nigeria are on the rise and continuous breeding of ducks needs basic information on their production environment, genetic background, and diversity. Nigerian local ducks (NLD) have been phenotypically characterised based on morphological characteristics which have provided a reasonable representation of their genetic difference. Morphological and morphometric variations exist among indigenous ducks of Nigeria and mottled plumage colour is preponderant. Low genetic diversity exists among Nigerian duck populations implying that ducks are in close genetic relationships irrespective of distinctive and varying phenotypic, biochemical, and physiological characteristics, whereas the phylogenetic tree revealed clustered relationships. Large-scale duck farming is uncommon; rather, ducks are kept as a pastime business. The scavenging feeding system is majorly practiced among small flock sizes which are highly predominant. NLDs lay between 100 and 125 eggs yearly when reared under an intensive system of management and also have a high hatching rate of above 70% even though high environmental temperature affects their reproductive performance. There are no organised duck markets in Nigeria. Duck eggs are rarely consumed or sold; rather they are majorly used for breeding purposes. Myths, poor funding, lack of standard laboratories, and lack of skilled workforce are among the factors affecting the development and conservation of indigenous ducks in Nigeria. Introducing improved breeds of duck and establishing conservation programmes will help promote greater duck production and conservation. Duck business is a profitable but seasonal business and can efficiently bridge the noticed protein gap in rural communities.