Aseel Fighter Murga: Unique Characteristics of Asil Chicken Breeds

Asil Chicken: The Legacy of the Oldest Fighting Chicken Breed

Poultry farming began around 1400 BCE. In ancient times, chickens were kept in small groups in homes for meat supply. However, in the 20th century, poultry farming developed commercially. After that, chickens were mainly raised for egg and meat production. Traditionally, in India, poultry farming is practiced under a zero-cost system as backyard poultry, primarily in tribal areas. This system is mainly adopted for meat, eggs, and game birds.

In the remote areas of India, poultry farming has a deep connection with tribal culture. Different geographical distributions and climates have led to the development of various breeds and population structures. Similarly, the Kadaknath rooster originated from the tribal regions of Madhya Pradesh, particularly the Dhar and Jhabua districts. These roosters are mainly raised by local tribes, who have long preserved them and presented their unique characteristics to the world.

The Asil or Aseel chicken is a well-known breed in India, recognized for its strength, endurance, and combative nature. This breed is historically significant. “Asil” is an Arabic word meaning “pure” or “purebred.” The Asil gamefowl breed is believed to be about 3,500 years old. Rooster fighting is mentioned in the ancient Indian manuscript “Manusmriti.”

The Asil breed likely developed from the Indian Red Junglefowl, shaped into a new breed through countless generations of selective breeding. Asil or Malay chickens have given rise to almost all modern poultry breeds. Even several European breeds have developed from this lineage.

The Aseel breed is an important indigenous breed in India, known for its fighting instinct and delicious meat. It is also famous for its ability to withstand heat and resistance to diseases. All its characteristics have evolved naturally through long periods of organic processes.

However, due to crossbreeding with other breeds over time, its purity has diminished. Today, Asil chickens are primarily used in combat competitions. The Asil breed lays about 70 eggs per year, making it one of the lowest egg-laying breeds. This is why its population has been declining annually.

The Asil breed is mainly found in the Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Additionally, it has been exported to many other countries.

The Asil breed has been registered with the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), an Indian institution. The NBAGR is headquartered in Karnal, Haryana. Currently, 220 indigenous animal and poultry breeds are registered in India. Previously, there were 212 registered breeds, but the number increased to 220 after the registration of 8 new breeds in December 2023.

Before registering a new breed, there must be at least 1,000 animals of that breed. India currently has 20 indigenous poultry breeds. Recently, the Aravali chicken was registered as a new breed.

Aravali Chicken

The Aravali chicken is a prominent breed from Gujarat. It is a dual-purpose breed used for both meat and egg production. The Aravali breed is mainly found in the Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, and Mahisagar districts of Gujarat.

Origin and History of Asil Chicken (Aseel Chicken)

“Asil” is an Arabic word that means “pure” or “purebred.” The Asil breed is believed to be about 3,500 years old. Rooster fighting is mentioned in the ancient Indian manuscript “Manusmriti.” The Asil rooster is a famous breed in India, primarily raised for its combative nature.

The origin of the Asil breed is the result of several generations of selective breeding with the Red Junglefowl. Its birthplace is commonly believed to be the Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh and the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh. In ancient times, the tribal people of these states raised the Asil breed for meat and egg supply. Additionally, rooster fighting was organized for entertainment.

Asil roosters were primarily raised by local tribes, who preserved their unique characteristics and presented them to the world. However, enthusiasts of rooster fighting spread this breed throughout India. Asil or Malay chickens have given rise to most modern poultry breeds. This breed is still considered one of the oldest and most influential.

Breeding Tract of Asil Chicken

The Asil chicken is found across India, but its primary breeding tract is located in the northern and southern Bastar districts of Chhattisgarh and the Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh. Farmers in this region typically own an average of 4.67 acres of land, and this contributes to the popularity of backyard poultry farming, with one in every five families practicing it.

Additionally, the Asil chicken is also found in the Koraput and Malkangiri districts of Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Dantewada district in Chhattisgarh. This breed plays a significant role in traditional backyard poultry farming in rural areas.

Climate of Breeding Tract of Asil Chicken

The breeding tract of the Asil chicken is situated at an elevation of 550 to 760 meters above sea level. The average temperature in this region is 27°C, with recorded minimum temperatures of 11°C and maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The relative humidity ranges from 25% to 86%. The annual rainfall in this region averages between 120 to 160 centimeters.

Farmer’s Role in Asil Chicken Development

The Asil breed was primarily developed by the indigenous communities of Bastar and surrounding regions of Andhra Pradesh. These communities used their traditional knowledge and experience to preserve and enhance the breed. This breed was also nurtured under the patronage of Nawabs, landlords, and kings, particularly the king of Vijayanagaram, whose contributions played a key role in the breed’s development.

Landowners and kings raised Asil chickens for meat and egg supply, while indigenous people kept 4-5 birds in their backyard poultry systems. They bred the birds based on their own experiences.

The Asil chicken is renowned for its well-developed bony spurs (sharp claws), which made it popular for cockfighting. These fighting traits contributed to its fame across India.

Management and Feeding of Asil Chicken

Asil chickens adapt well to the free-range system. They are primarily fed leftover food from the household, supplemented with grains like rice, corn, millet, and ragi. Adequate fresh water is provided for the birds. In the evening or during storms, the chickens are confined to a small enclosure behind the house to keep them safe.

Housing System of Asil Chicken

In tribal areas, Asil chickens are mainly raised in the backyard poultry housing system, where they are kept in open spaces behind homes. Another common practice is the free-range housing system, where the chickens are allowed to roam in fields or farms. However, the free-range system comes with the risk of disease transmission due to the lack of confinement.

Alternative Name of Asil Chicken

The Asil chicken is also known by several alternative names due to its distinctive traits, particularly its well-developed bony spurs, which make it famous for cockfighting. Some of the other common names for the Asil breed are:

• Fighting Rooster (due to its fighting abilities)
• Indian Game or Game Fowl (reflecting its heritage as a game bird)
• Lucknow Chicken (named after the region where it is found)
• Reza (light red)
• Chitta (black and white, silver)
• Kagar (black)
• Nuri 89 (white)
• Yarkin (black and red)
• Peela (golden red)

Asil Chicken Characteristics

Asil chickens are renowned for their stamina, strength, and fighting abilities. Here are some of the key characteristics:

• Feather Color:
  The most common feather color for Asil roosters is brown-red, followed by red-brown and black. Some birds may also have white or golden feathers.
• Feather Pattern:
  The feather pattern is generally patchy and solid, although some birds may exhibit a dull or speckled pattern.
• Skin Color:
  The skin color of Asil chickens is typically yellow, although some may have white skin.
• Leg Color:
  The legs of Asil chickens are usually yellow, and the breed is known for its well-developed, bony spurs. These spurs are one of the reasons Asil chickens are known as a fighting breed or game fowl.
• Ear Lobe Color:
  The ear lobes of both male and female Asil chickens are red.
• Comb Color and Type:
  Asil chickens can have various types of combs, including single, pea, and rose combs. The pea comb is the most common in Asil chickens, though some may have single or rose combs. In rare cases, adult males may have a V-shaped comb, and yellow combs are also seen in some poultry.
• Eye Color:
  Asil roosters generally have brown eyes, although some may have black eyes.
• Rooster’s Gait:
  The Asil rooster is known for its majestic and attractive walk, which adds to its striking appearance.
• Body Weight:
  The weight of an Asil rooster increases significantly as it matures. At 14 weeks, the bird may weigh around 0.5 kg. By 20-24 weeks, it reaches 1 kg, and by 32 weeks, it weighs approximately 1.5 kg. At one year of age, it can weigh around 2.5 kg.

Age at First Egg of Asil Breed

Asil hens typically start laying eggs later than many other chicken breeds. While most hens begin laying eggs around 20-22 weeks of age, Asil hens lay their first egg between 27-29 weeks. Once they start laying, a hen will lay eggs for 15-20 days before taking a break to incubate them. They brood their eggs for about 21-22 days. After the chicks hatch, they continue to brood the chicks for 8-12 weeks before beginning to lay eggs again. Asil hens are known for their strong broody instinct, which makes them one of the best mothers among all chicken breeds.

Production in Asil Chicken

1. Egg Production

• Annual Egg Production: Asil hens produce approximately 30-36 eggs annually, typically divided into three cycles (each with 10-12 eggs).
• Egg Color: The eggs are usually brown in color, unlike breeds like Kadaknath, whose eggs are black.
• Egg Weight: Asil eggs weigh between 39-44 grams, with an average weight of 41 grams.
• Egg-Laying Frequency: While Asil hens lay eggs throughout the year, their egg production significantly decreases during the summer months, particularly in May and June. During this period, even when eggs are laid, the hatchability rate is lower.

2. Meat Production

• Meat Use: Asil chickens are primarily raised for meat production and are used as broilers.
• Age at Slaughter: They are typically slaughtered at 28-32 weeks for special occasions such as festivals, religious events, or weddings, particularly by indigenous communities.
• Dressing Percentage: When slaughtered between 27-50 weeks of age, Asil chickens have a dressing percentage of up to 75%.

Reproduction in Asil Breed

Fertility and Hatchability

• Fertility Rate: The fertility rate of Asil hens is approximately 84.28%.
• Hatchability: Around 74% of the eggs laid are fertile and hatchable, and when the eggs are boiled, hatchability increases to 85%.

Brooding (Natural Nesting)

Asil hens are known for their natural brooding behavior. They tend to brood three times a year, sometimes even twice. This trait is highly valued in rural areas where these hens can naturally incubate and hatch their eggs, making them an important part of traditional farming.

Socio-Cultural Aspects of Asil Chicken

In regions like Andhra Pradesh and Bastar, Asil chickens are an integral part of the tribal communities’ cultural heritage. Cockfighting is a traditional and significant cultural event in these areas, often associated with festivals and fairs. This cultural practice has helped preserve and protect the Asil breed over generations, ensuring its continued presence in these communities.

Diseases and Parasite Infestation of Asil Chicken

Common Diseases

Asil chickens, like other poultry, can be affected by various diseases, including:

• Ranikhet Disease
• Marek’s Disease
• Gumboro Disease
• Bird Flu
• Bacterial White Diarrhea

Parasitic Infestation

• Internal Parasites: Asil chickens can suffer from ascariasis (a type of parasitic infection) and taeniasis.
• External Parasites: They may also be affected by lice and tick infestations.

Vaccination and Treatment

Most Asil chickens in tribal regions are not vaccinated, and the lack of vaccination and treatment facilities in these areas is a significant challenge. This makes them more susceptible to various diseases and parasites, which can impact their health and productivity.

Key Points About Asil Chicken:

1. Alternate Name: Asil chickens are also known as Lucknowi Murga.
2. Primary Purpose: This breed is mainly raised in India for meat production (Broiler).
3. Bony Spur: Asil chickens have highly developed bony spurs on their legs, which makes them exceptional in cockfights and capable of defeating other breeds. Due to this characteristic, they are also referred to as fighting breed, Indian Game, or Game Fowl.
4. Royal Stature: Asil hens display a regal walk, which is unique to this breed.
5. Broody Nature: Asil hens are known for their broody behavior (tendency to sit on eggs), which makes them one of the best mothers among all chicken breeds.

Measures to Improve the Population of Asil Chickens:

1. Farmer Education and Support:
   • Farmers should be educated and provided technical assistance in poultry farming and livestock management to improve the care and management of Asil chickens.
2. Vaccination:
   • Farmers should be informed about the importance of timely vaccination to protect chickens from diseases like Marek’s disease, Ranikhet disease, Gumboro disease, and bird flu.
3. Parasite Control:
   • Farmers need to be made aware of preventive measures against internal (Endoparasitic) and external (Ectoparasitic) parasites. Effective parasite control will improve the overall health of the chickens and boost production.
4. Asil Chicken Exhibitions/Fairs:
   • Organize local exhibitions or fairs for Asil chickens where the best chickens are awarded in different categories. Such events will encourage farmers to improve their poultry management practices by offering recognition and inspiration.
5. Disease Diagnosis Facilities:
   • Disease diagnosis centers should be established at the tehsil/block level, allowing farmers to detect diseases early and provide timely treatment. Vaccination facilities should be made available at government hospitals to ensure accessibility for all farmers.

Discover the unique characteristics of Asil (Aseel) chicken breeds, including their history, physical traits, and adaptability in poultry farming.