Evaluation of pre-weaning growth performances and survival rate of Western Highland goats under traditional management system in Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted in Enebse Sar Midir district of East Gojam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia, to evaluate the growth performance and survival rate of kids. The study was carried out on 60 western highland kids owned by farmers in the area. Body weight of kids was measured and recorded from birth to 60 days at 10 days interval using a spring balance. The overall mean birth weight and weight at 60 days were found to be 2.4±0.08 kg and 7±0.18 kg, respectively. The overall mean daily weight gain from birth to 60 days of age was 72.7±2.3 g. Kids born from the second and above parity does, single born kids and male kids were heavier (p<0.001) than kids from first parity does, twin born kids and female kids, respectively. Single born and male kids had higher (P<0.001) average daily weight gains compared to twin born and female kids. Kids born from first parity does had significantly lower (P<0.01) average daily weight gains than kids born from second and above parity does. The overall survival rate of kids recorded in this study was 91.5%. The survival rate of kids was significantly affected by parity of the dam and type of birth. Kids born from first parity dams and twin born kids had the lowest survival rate. First parity does performed the lowest almost in all the traits considered which calls for differential feeding management for first parity does before and after kidding. Similarly, twin kidding dams need to be fed with additional quality feed to improve milk yield and consequently the survival and growth rate of their kids.