Cockerels are the young roosters, the male counterparts of the layers (meant for egg production) which reach maturity within 5 to 6 months of age. Before the discovery of modern broiler, cockerels were the meat producers while the hen lays eggs for chicks or table purpose.
Poultry farming in one of the lucrative farming enterprises in most countries in Agriculture sector. Poultry meat mainly comes from two sources: broilers and cockerel. The small poultry farmer prefers to rear cockerel than broiler because of low cost and lesser susceptibility to disease compared to broiler production.
Since hatcheries produced separate hybrids for meat and egg productions, the pullets (layers) are kept for egg production while the cockerels given out at a very cheap price. Thinking of commercial meat production, most farmers do not consider cockerel for some reasons.
Some of the reasons for rejecting the cockerels on commercial quantity are:
1. Slow growth rate.
2. Low feed conversion rate.
3. Non tender meat at maturity.
Even with the above reasons, there are still advantageous features of the Cockerels over Broilers. Good features of cockerels are as follow:
1. Cost of chicks is very low which enhances more profit.
2. Cockerels are strong and therefore easier to raise.
3. Meat from cockerels possess better taste due to their age at maturity.
4. Cockerels can easily be raised on free range system.
5. Many consumers have preference for tougher meat at home.
With respect to the above features, cockerels can be commercially raised in two grades which are Juveniles and Roosters. Juvenile cockerels have to do with brooding of day old chicks till they are 4 week old when they can be sold out to other backyard farmers who cannot withstand the stress of brooding process.
Keeping of Roosters involve rearing of the birds for about 20 to 24 weeks. By then, they are matured cockerels ready for consumption having the body weight of about 2.5 kg when all things are being equal. Cockerel chicken are raised in both urban and rural areas. Cockerel is a male chicken under one year of age.
What is Cockerel Chicken?
Cockerel chicken is a male chicken typically raised for meat. Unlike regular chickens, which are slaughtered at a younger age, cockerels are older roosters that have more developed muscles and a richer flavor. The term “cockerel” specifically refers to a young male chicken that is less than a year old but older than a typical broiler chicken.
Benefit of Cockerel Production or Farming
- The meat is tasty and well-accepted.
- There is no taboo against eating of the meat.
- It can be raised on small and large-scale.
- Cockerel is hardy and less susceptible to disease compared to other poultry.
- It can be raised under intensive and semi-intensive system of production.
- The meat is low in fat and cholesterol compared to broiler’s meat.
- It is commonly raised by local people.
- It is a good source of animal protein and it is of high biologicalvalue.
- It is a good source of income to farmers.
- The business can be combined with other farm business.
- The day old cockerel could be easily sourced.
- Cockerel marketing is all year round and not seasonal.
- At maturity it can reach market weight of 3-4kg.
Read Also: Vaccination Program for Cockerel Birds
Types of Exotic Breeds of Cockerel Chicken
There are different types of cockerel breeds in the world. The breeds could be classified as; (i) Local cockerel (ii) Exotic cockerel.
A) Australorp
Origin – Australia
Classification – Heavy breed
Weight – 3.20 – 3.60kg
Colours available- Black
B) Gold Laced Wvandottes
Origin – North America
Classification – Heavy breed
Egg colour – Tinted
Weights – 3.20 – 3.80
C) Rhode Island Reds
Origin – North America
Classification – Heavy Breed, Soft Feather
Egg colour – Tinted to brown
Weights – 3.00 – 3.60kg
Colours available- Red
D) Plymouth Rocks
Origin – North America
Classification – Heavy Breed, Soft Feather
Weights – 3.6 – 4.30kg
E) Silkies
Origin – Asia
Classification – Light Breed, Soft feather
Weights – 1.20 – 1.50kg
Colours available- White, Black, Lavender, Blue, Partridge.
F) Light Sussex
Origin – Britain
Classification – Heavy Breed, Soft feather
Weight – 3.20 – 3.60kg
Colour available- Light
G) Rhode Island Whites
Origin – North America
Classification – Heavy Breed, Soft feather
Egg colour – Tinted to brown
Weights – 3.40 – 3.90kg
Coloures available- White
H) Speckled Sussex
Origin – Britain
Classification – Heavy Breed, Soft feather
Egg colour – Tinted
Weights – 3.60 – 4.10kg
Colours available- Speckled.
Local Cockerel
It is of small stature. The colour varies from one region to the others. It is hardy and reared mainly under extensive system of production where they roam about and fend for themselves. The matire size could reach up to 2.5kg
Classification of Cockerel
Name – Cockerel
Kingdom – Animalia
Order – Galliformes
Family – Phasianidae
Genus – Gallus
Specie – gallus or domesticus
Zoological Name – Gallus gallus or Gallus domesticus
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Health Benefits of Cockerel Chicken
1. High Protein Content: Cockerel chicken is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: It contains important vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins (especially B12), which are crucial for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
3. Lower in Fat: Compared to older roosters, cockerel chicken tends to have less fat, making it a leaner meat choice.
4. Promotes Muscle Health: The protein in cockerel chicken helps build and maintain muscle mass, making it beneficial for athletes and those looking to increase their protein intake.
5. Source of Iron: It provides iron, necessary for red blood cell formation and oxygen transport throughout the body.
Culinary Uses of Cockerel Chicken
1. Cockerel chicken is valued for its robust flavor and texture, which makes it ideal for various cooking methods. Here are some common ways cockerel chicken is used in culinary traditions:
2. Stews and Soups: Due to its tougher texture, cockerel chicken is often used in hearty stews and soups where slow cooking helps tenderize the meat and infuse flavors.
3. Roasting: Cockerel chicken can be roasted whole or in pieces, enhancing its natural flavors and creating a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside.
4. Curries and Braises: Its flavorful meat holds up well in curries and braised dishes, absorbing spices and seasonings to create complex and aromatic flavors.
5. Stocks and Broths: The bones and carcass of cockerel chicken are excellent for making rich stocks and broths, adding depth of flavor to soups and sauces.
6. Grilling and Barbecuing: Marinated cockerel chicken pieces are grilled or barbecued to perfection, offering a smoky, savory taste that is popular in many cuisines.
Example of Cockerel Chicken in Traditional Dishes
In Nigerian cuisine, cockerel chicken is commonly used in dishes like “Afang Soup” or “Pepper Soup,” where its robust flavor adds depth to the dish. The slow simmering process in these soups helps tenderize the meat while allowing it to absorb the flavors of herbs, spices, and vegetables.
In summary, cockerel chicken, with its distinct flavor and nutritional benefits, is a versatile ingredient in various culinary traditions worldwide. Whether stewed, roasted, or used in soups, this type of chicken offers a flavorful and protein-rich addition to meals. Incorporating cockerel chicken into your diet can provide essential nutrients and enhance the taste of your favorite dishes.
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I wish to ask if(1) Cockerel are more diseases free than noilers and boilers? (2) can Cockerel be vaccinated just as noilers and boilers?(3)why is it that it takes cockerels longer time to grow?