Vol. 10, Issue 2, Part D (2025)

Author(s): Suja CS, Anitha P, Binoj Chacko, Beena C Joseph, R Thirupati Venkatachalapathy and Marykutty Thomas

Abstract: Tellicherry chicken, Kerala’s only indigenous breed recognized, holds significant genetic, cultural, and economic value. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize its phenotypic traits under a structured conservation program at the AICRP on Poultry Breeding, Mannuthy. A total of 1,250 chicks were reared, and 700 birds were evaluated at 30 weeks for various traits, including feather morphology, feather distribution, plumage pattern, primary and secondary plumage colour, plumage colour, skin colour, shank colour, earlobe colour, comb colour, comb type, comb size, comb position, eye colour, and beak colour, following FAO guidelines. The breed exhibited consistent phenotypic traits, such as normal feather morphology, predominantly solid black plumage, white skin, red single combs, and uniformly black beaks. Comparative analyses highlighted the breed's uniqueness and alignment with global patterns in indigenous chicken, particularly the dominance of black plumage linked to tropical adaptability. The findings emphasize the genetic stability and adaptability of the Tellicherry chicken, reinforcing its importance in poultry improvement programs. This study underscores the need for further genetic and genomic research to enhance productivity, resilience, and conservation strategies, ensuring the sustainable utilization of this unique indigenous breed.