Production systems and breeding practices of Begaria cattle breed as input for a community-based breeding program

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Livestock Management
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Begaria cattle are a valuable resource for community-based conservation and breeding programs.
• Understanding current production systems and breeding practices is crucial for effective breed management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the production systems and breeding practices of Begaria cattle.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for community-based conservation and breeding programs.

Main Methods:

• A semi-structured questionnaire and focus group discussions were used to gather data from farmers.
• Data were collected from three kebeles: Almahal, Fanguso, and Mankush.
• Data analysis was performed using R software.

Main Results:

• Cattle are raised for milk, breeding, meat, cash, and savings, with milk being the primary reason (29%).
• Common practices include herd mixing, seasonal herd movement, and bull sharing.
• Reproductive constraints include abortion (24%), repeat breeding (19%), and calf mortality (14%).
• Average age at first calving was 41.5 months, calving interval was 16.0 months, and milk yield was 3.2 L/day.
• Breeding bulls are selected around 3 years of age based on phenotype, growth, and coat color.

Conclusions:

• Community-based conservation and breeding programs for Begaria cattle require stakeholder participation.
• Addressing reproductive constraints and optimizing production systems are essential for breed sustainability.
• A multi-trait selection program should be designed to improve Begaria cattle productivity and resilience.