Poultry generally refers to domesticated birds that are kept by humans for their eggs, meat, or feathers. These birds typically include chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese.
Poultry farming is a vital agricultural activity in Kenya, providing a significant source of income and nutrition to many households. It plays a crucial role in the socio-economic fabric of rural areas, offering a rapid return on investment due to the short production cycles of poultry products.
Examples:
- Backyard chicken keeping is widespread in rural and urban areas, where families raise birds for eggs and meat, contributing to their food security and household income.
- Commercial poultry operations in Kenya may focus on layers for egg production, broilers for meat, or both, employing more intensive farming methods to maximize output.
Poultry farming can be a sustainable agricultural practice when managed responsibly, incorporating proper housing, nutrition, disease management, and biosecurity measures to ensure the health and productivity of the birds.
Related Terms: Aviculture, Free-range farming, Broiler production, Egg production, Biosecurity
