Effect of hen weight on egg production and some egg quality characteristics in the partridge (Alectoris graeca)

A study was conducted to determine the effect of live weight of partridges on egg production and egg quality characteristics. A total of 144 Rock Partridges were divided into control, heavy, middle, and light BW groups at 32 wk of age. Live weights averaged 512.78 g for the control group, 576.18 g for the heavy group, 523.49 g for the middle group, and 473.83 g for the light group. Egg production rates of these groups were 41.44, 45.78, 32.38, and 24.67%, respectively, over an 8-wk period (P < 0.05). Live weight significantly affected egg weight, specific gravity, albumen index, shell weight, shell thickness, Haugh unit, and albumen weight (P < 0.05). Live weight did not affect the shape index, membrane weight, or yolk weight. As a result, the live weights of partridges used for breeding should not be under the average live weights of hens of the stock. On the other hand, other important factors that affect the egg quality of partridges should be investigated.