Keywords
breeding stock
testicle
coat colour
calving interval
How to Cite
Abstract
This research assessed the preferred traits by smallholder cattle framers in selecting breeding stocks for production in three ago-ecological zones of Yobe state, Nigeria. A total of 600 cattle farmers were selected across twelve local government areas in the state. Information was sought on preferred traits for selecting breeding stock using structured questionnaires. Chi-square test was used to compare variables between agroecological zones. The study revealed that most (56.7%) farmers preferred combination of body size, coat colour and tail length to adaptation and testicular size (29.8%) in cattle for breeding stock. There were significant (P<0.001) differences between farmers’ preferences among the zones. Greater portion (91.8%) of the farmers preferred tall animals with red coat colour. Preference for horn shape were 82.8% for curved. Nose profile had higher (64.0%) preference for convex nose. Most (50.5%) farmers preferred disease tolerance to tolerance to drought (49.5%). Large (51.2%) number of farmers preferred compact testicles to split ones (48.8%). Many (88.3%) of the farmers preferred long tailed cattle. Across the zones, preference on mothering ability was 54.3% for multiple births, 32.3% for short calving interval and 13.3% for offspring quality while 75.2% farmers preferred animals with large udders and long teat (91.8%). The result of this study could be useful in designing effective breeding strategies in selecting breeding stock for cattle production in this region.
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