Exotic chickens are in increasing demand among Belarusian rural estate owners

January 31, Vitebsk / Diana Kurilo - BELTA /. Exotic chickens are in increasing demand among owners of rural estates. This conclusion was reached by the Vitebsk Zoo based on sales results in 2010, its director Aleksey Andreikov told a BELTA correspondent. Several years ago, the zoo purchased Chinese Silkie chickens, Bantam, and Brahma breeds. Thanks to comfortable conditions, the exotic species not only started laying eggs but also hatching chicks. As a result, the population increased, and the opportunity arose to generate additional income from trade. Last year, the zoo sold exotic chickens, dwarf rabbits, guinea pigs, and budgerigars to the public for Br6 million. This is despite the fact that the price for the most expensive birds and animals (chickens and rabbits) does not exceed Br50 thousand. However, decorative chickens are in the greatest demand. They are mainly bought by owners of agro-ecotourism estates, who try to attract tourists, including with the help of unusual birds. Batches of chickens are purchased by organizers of rural tourism from the Brest and Gomel regions. In order to meet the demand, the zoo will install an incubator in the near future. With its help, not only exotic chickens but also exotic geese and ducks, which the zoo also intends to breed, will be born. This year's plans include selling exotic animals to the public and pet stores for Br15 million. The Vitebsk Zoo houses over fifty species of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. The animal population exceeds 1,000 individuals. -0-