Effects of Inclusion of Ground Prosopis juliflora Pod on Fertility and Hatchability of White Leghorn Hens

Chickens are kept in many parts of the world irrespective of climate, traditions, life standard, and there is no religious taboo related to consumption of eggs and chicken meat like those for pig meat [1]. To the poor majority people of rural areas, chickens serve as an immediate source of meat and income when money is needed for urgent family requirement [2]. It renders a significant contribution to human livelihood and contributes significantly to food security [3], particularly in providing animal protein to the people. Animal protein requirement in developing countries is becoming critical due to rapid population growth. In most developing countries, the daily animal protein consumption per capita is below that recommended by FAO [4]. Poultry production is the shortest means in filling the gap on animal protein deficiency as compared to other livestock species, because of the fact that it has short generation intervals, good environmental adaptation and requires small farming system. But, availability, quality and cost of feed ingredients are the major constraints to poultry production regardless of the system of production and geographical location [5].