Perceived Effects of Climate Change on Poultry Egg Production in Rivers State Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the effects of climate change on poultry egg production in Rivers State, Nigeria. A total of 120 poultry egg farmers were randomly selected through questionnaire and interview schedule. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tools were used for data analysis. Result of the socio-economic characteristics revealed that majorities (60.8%) of the poultry farmers were males, 80.8% were married, and 61.6% had tertiary education. Also from findings, the majority (67.5%) of the poultry farmers were aware that high temperature, increase in rainfall (86.7%), erratic rainfall pattern (71.7%), decrease in relative humidity (55.8%) and flooding of poultry farms (71.7%) has harmful effects on poultry egg production. More so, the perceived effects of climate on egg production include high rate of diseases and parasites incidence, soft egg shell formation, low quantity and quality of egg production, high costs of poultry production activities, reduction in feed and water intake, and increase in poultry bird mortality. Results also revealed that television, radio, social media and fellow poultry farmers were their main sources of information on climate change. It is concluded that education attainment and, marital status of poultry farmers, were measures used in controlling the effects of climate change. It is therefore commended that poultry farmers should be adequately informed on the best operating systems to minimize the harmful effect of climate change on poultry egg production as well as ensure optimum level of poultry egg production.