Yusuf L Henuk
Sumatera Utara University, Indonesia
Title: Small-scale family poultry production systems and the their current developing status
Biography
Biography: Yusuf L Henuk
Abstract
Chickens constitute about 90.55% of the poultry population and are, by far, the most important poultry species in all parts
of the world compared to other poultry species such as muscovy ducks, mallard ducks, pigeons, guinea fowl, geese, quail
and turkeys. The term “poultry” is therefore often used synonymously for chickens. Chickens are found everywhere around the
world; every culture knows them and how to husband them. Over the last decade, poultry population has grown spectacularly
throughout the world: 23% in developed and 76% in developing countries, respectively. The term “family poultry” used to
describe the full variety of small-scale poultry production systems that are found in rural, urban and peri-urban areas of
developing countries. It is used to describe poultry production that is practised by individual families as a means of obtaining
food security, income and gainful employment. Being called ‘Family poultry’, ‘Small-scale poultry’, ‘Small-holder poultry’,
‘Scavenging poultry’, or “Village poultry” the different systems of poultry rearing with various levels of intensification are now
adopted by poor, marginal as well as richer members of the society with intensification according to their economical status
and requirements. Small-scale poultry production can also be considered as less intensive or ‘alternative system’. There are
four broad well recognized small-scale poultry production systems. They are (1) Free-range extensive system, (2) Backyard
extensive system, (3) Semi-scavenging system, and (4) Small-scale intensive system. Characteristics of these systems met 14
criteria. Small-scale poultry production is everywhere in developing countries and has economic and social significance in the
rural areas. Hence, it can be used as a tool in the eradication of poverty, as a means of economic empowerment, as a way of
ensuring food security for rural families, as a vehicle for demonstrating the appropriate application of science and technology
to solving prob¬lems, and as a unique opportunity for technical cooperation among developing countries. In conclusion,
increased production of poultry, both commercial and small-scale production, is a vital contribution to food security at both
the household and community levels in many countries. Small-scale family poultry is thus a valuable asset to the local human
population in many countries located in the tropical and sub-tropical environments.