Free-range rearing characteristics of two German dual-purpose chicken breeds: Dresden chickens and Dresden bantams

This study characterized the rearing of two dual-purpose chicken breeds, Dresden chickens (DrChi) and Dresden bantams (DrBa), in terms of growth and slaughter performance and integument condition under extensive free-range conditions. The trial consisted of two rearing groups with 173 DrChi and 197 DrBa, which were reared over a period of 20 weeks. Additionally, 50 slow-growing Cobb Sasso™ (CoSa) broilers served as the control group until week 10. DrChi reached body weights of 2,293.1 ± 356.4 g (roosters) and 1,777.9 ± 201.8 g (hens), while DrBa weighed 1,223.1 ± 120.0 g (roosters) and 880.0 ± 121.9 g (hens) by week 20. The growth data were fitted to a re-parameterized Gompertz function. As a result, the maximum daily weight gain were calculated at 19.5 g, 14.5 g, 9.8 g, and 7.1 g, at week of age 9.5, 10.2, 9.2, and 8.9 for male and female DrChi and DrBa, respectively. Using binary logistic regression models, breed and age showed significant differences in plumage damage (p < 0.001 each). In the evaluation of the slaughter data, the effects of breed were found both in terms of the carcass yield (DrChi: 64.4 %; DrBa: 59.8 %; CoSa: 72.5 %; p < 0.014) and in the proportions of valuable cuts (breast filet—DrChi: 14.5 %; DrBa: 16.7 %; CoSa: 24.9 %; p < 0.001; thigh meat—DrChi: 34.7 %; DrBa: 31.4 %; CoSa: 30.0; p < 0.001). In conclusion, both local breeds were suitable for extensive rearing and could be an option for local direct marketing.