IMPROVEMENT STAGE OF THE TURKEY CROSS "VICTORIA

Abstract

The object of research was turkeys of the main and reserve lines of the cross "Victoria".
The aim of the study was to improve the cross to increase the productive qualities of maternal
lines and increase the live weight of designated turkey poults. In this study, we used adult
turkeys, including yearling ones, as well as one-day-old poults.
The studies were carried out in 2019 in the production environment of Genetic Selection
Centre "North-Caucasian Zonal Experimental Station of Poultry". The starting material was
evaluated in terms of live weight and origin, reproductive qualities and feed conversion.
During research on yearling turkeys, the optimal line ratio was identified. The live
weight of the K1 line yearling turkeys at the beginning of egg-laying was at the level of 5.94
kg, the livability rate during the egg-laying period was at the level of 98.46%, the hatching eggs
yield was at the level of 88.70%. The obtained data allowed us to conclude that higher indicators
were noted in the turkeys breeding system of the VI lines (roosters) and the K1 line (hens), in
comparison to the control maternal line KA.
The optimal combinations of lines for improving the cross "Victoria" have been
identified. The indicators of replacement chicks were evaluated. Breeding material of the
desired type has been prepared. The poultry stock has been reproduced. The evaluation work
of the performance indicators of growing birds has begun.