Open AccessThe West African Dwarf Sheep I. Reproductive Performance and Growth
Author(s) -
A. Dettmers,
C. A. Igoche,
K. Akinkuolie
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
nigerian journal of animal production
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 0331-2062
DOI - 10.51791/njap.v3i1.2585
Subject(s) - flock , biology , selection (genetic algorithm) , zoology , agronomy , veterinary medicine , ecology , medicine , artificial intelligence , computer science
THE study of the West African Dwarf flock at the University of Ibadan revealed that these sheep under moderately improved management, but without a breeding and selection programe were considerably better than they have been generally given credit for. West African Dwarf ewes are prolific and early maturing. The sheep are small and have finished their growth by the age of two years. Average daily gain up to three months was 85 g and from three months to two years, 31 g. Mortality of lambs with 20% up to three months of age, however, is still too high and should be reduced by improved pest and disease control.