Extension needs in quail farming in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study ascertained extecisin needs in quail faming in Imo State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling technique was used to select two agricultural zones (Owerri and Orlu zones) while proportionate sampling technique was used to select about 50% of extension personnel in the two zones. Thus, a total of 73 respondents were used for the study. Data were analysed with percentage and mean score. Greater proportion (54.8%) of the extension staff used in this study were extension agents who were females (52.1%) and had first degree education (60.3%). Their mean age and mean years of experience in extension work were 45.3years and 13.8 years respectively Respondents had no good source/s of information on quail hence their perceptions show that they are not knowledgeable about the economic and nutritional importance of quail . One of the areas they needed training in quail was importance of quail”(79.5%) while one of the major challenges of quail faming is “lack of access to information on how to rear quail” (M= 2.71).The study recommended the need to boost research on quail production so that extension workers, farmers and consumers will appreciate the importance of this livestock and enjoy it”s nutritional and economic benefits.
Key words: extension needs quail farming Imo State