Some body measurements and their correlations with live weight in the rock partridge (Alectoris graeca)

The study was carried out to determine some body measurements of male and female rock partridges of varying age (hatching-14 weeks), and to demonstrate the correlations between these measurements and live weight. Body measurements increased with advancing age. The differences between live weights were significant at 6 and 14th weeks (P<0.05 to 0.01). Shank length and shank width (at the os tarsometatarsus) were found to be greater in males between the 8 and 14th weeks of age (P<0.01). Differences between the two sexes in length of head were significant at 4 and 14th weeks (P<0.05 to 0.01). As of the second week, a high significant correlation (0.366 to 0.751) was determined among all body measurements and live weight (P<0.001). The most decisive body measurements used in the determination of live weight were shank width, head length and shank length. The lowest prediction (R-2 = 12.5%) was determined during the hatching period. However, the highest prediction (R-2 = 81.4%) was determined in the 4th week, and generally prediction increased with advancing age (P<0.001). Some body measurements of male and female rock partridges of varying age and the correlation of these measurements with live weight were determined in the study. This study concludes that some body measurements, which can be easily obtained, can be used in the prediction of live weight and as criteria in selection for live weight.