Comparison of Small Scale and Large Scale Farms Husbandry Practices of Begait Cattle in Western Zone of Tigray Region, Ethiopia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20372/star.v8i4.03Keywords:
Begait cattle, breed status, husbandry practicesAbstract
The aim of this study was to assess the current status of Begait cattle and characterise their husbandry practices. Data collection tools involved rapid appraisal, farm visits, individual farm interviews, and focus group discussions. Primary data were collected from a total of 117 small-scale farms and 63 large-scale farms and analysed using SPSS version 20. The total Begait cattle population is estimated to be 42,000, and they constitute about 40.6% of the total cattle population in the study area. Calculated annual sampled herd dynamics figures revealed a net decline of the population over the previous year, and Begait cattle numbers had been declining over the past five years. Seasonal feed scarcity due to shrinking rangelands was identified as the most serious challenge for Begait cattle production. The most preferred trait of Begait cattle by both small and large farms was milk yield, followed by early growth rate. It was, therefore, recommended that a comprehensive Begait cattle breed management plan be developed. Further research and policy attention are necessary. Dairy traits of this breed also need to be closely investigated to build up on the finding that milk yield of the breed is the most preferred trait.
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