Production and management of agropastoral sheep and goats in semi–arid part of yobe state

Ibrahim Dukku Mohammed, Halilu Daneyel Nyako, Isaac Hyeladi Malgwi

Abstract


Production system of Agropastoral sheep and goats in semi-arid part of Yobe state Nigeria was studied through a field survey. The study covered 871 flocks in both the Southern (Jakusko), Central (Dapchi) and Northern (Jajimaji) areas of the semi-arid part of the state extending over 42,000km2. Most flocks studied were mixed flocks of sheep (Uda, Balami,Yankasa) and goats (Borno White, and Sokoto Red) breeds. Flocks of fewer than 50 heads of goats and 50-200 heads of sheep were most frequent. Most flocks were shepherd by family members and hired shepherds. Natural pastures cover the feed requirements of 3-5months depending on rainfall. About two thirds of the flocks were seeking better pastures for the periods of up to 4months. During dry season, flocks were fed on crop residues, grass hay and browse plants (leaves/pods/fruits). Lambing and kidding occur throughout the year with peaks in December-January. Average ram: ewe and buck: Doe ratios were 1:44 and 1:39 respectively. Sires are mostly selected within the flocks based on mainly their body size and dam performance. Conception rate averaged 88% in both sheep and goats. Twinning rate was 10%and 48% in sheep and goat respectively. Mortality of lambs and kids up to weaning at 3 and 5 months of age averaged 6.7%and 8% respectively. Marketing weight of lambs and kids averaged 25kg and 16kg respectively. Large proportions of lambs and kids were subjected to fattening periods of about 3 – 5 months to attain marketing weight of 40 - 45kg and 25 – 30 kg respectively. Goat milk production averaged 50kg for a lactation period of 75 - 102 days.


Keywords


Dapchi, Jakusko, Jajimaji, Borno white, Balami, Sokoto red, Uda, Yankasa,

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References


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