Typology of turkey farms in Southern Benin

Abstract

Turkey farming is practiced throughout the country but is less developed than that of other poultry. The purpose of the study was to characterize this type of farming. Data were collected during a retrospective survey in 83 farms in South Benin. The SAS software Proc corresp procedure identified three groups of farmers: Group 1 was composed of secondary school level farmers engaged in breeding and handicraft activities; Group 2 was composed of unschooled or primary school level farmers engaged in commerce and agro-livestock activities; and Group 3 was composed of civil servants or employees with a university degree. The majority of the respondents used improved or traditional poultry housing. Turkey feeding was mainly based on purchased feed in groups 1 and 3 compared to Group 2. Cereals, agricultural by-products, and kitchen scraps were used by the majority of Group 2 farmers. Natural incubation under the turkey or the hen was practiced by all farmers. Difficulties faced by the farmers were diseases, mortalities, accidents, predators, and lack of markets. Predators and accidents were reported more often in Groups 1 and 2 than in Group 3. Turkeys were mostly sold during the holiday season in all groups. The selling price of turkeys was higher in Group 3 than in Group 2, where the products were more expensive than in Group 1. Overall, turkey farming was semi-improved in groups 1 and 3, and traditional in Group 2. It needs to be improved to make it more competitive.