Blood Biochemical Parameters of Free-Range Indigenous Chickens During the Rainy and Dry Seasons in Borno State, North East Nigeria

Free-range indigenous chickens, commonly called village chickens, represent a significant component of rural poultry production in North East Nigeria and are subjected to pronounced seasonal nutritional and environmental fluctuations. This study compared blood biochemical parameters in free-range indigenous chickens during the rainy and dry seasons in Borno State, North East Nigeria. One hundred and twenty adult indigenous chickens comprising sixty sampled during the rainy season and sixty during the dry season were recruited from rural households in Biu and Gwoza Local Government Areas. Serum total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, calcium, phosphorus, and aspartate aminotransferase were measured by standard biochemical methods. Serum total protein, albumin, and glucose concentrations were significantly higher during the rainy season, reflecting greater dietary diversity and availability of insects, seeds, and green forage. Aspartate aminotransferase was elevated during the dry season, potentially reflecting greater physical activity in feed-seeking behaviour under scarce foraging conditions. Calcium and phosphorus showed no significant seasonal variation. These findings demonstrate that indigenous village chickens in Borno State experience physiologically meaningful seasonal biochemical fluctuations driven by forage availability and climate. The data provide practical guidance for targeted nutritional supplementation strategies during the dry season lean period to sustain flock productivity in North East Nigeria. Keywords: indigenous chickens, serum biochemistry, seasonal variation, free-range, Borno State.