On-Farm Performance Of Sahiwal -Zebu Crossbreds From Birth To 12 Months Of Age In Trans mara

Abstract

Low genetic potential for growth has been identified as a constraint to increased productivity of the local Zebu cattle (Gregory and Trail, 1981). Performance of Zebu cattle can be improved in the production environment by systematic introduction of genes from the Sahiwal breed to increase growth potential. Zebu cattle have low growth rates and attain age and weight at first service at an older age (Saeed et al. 1987). This results in low reproductive ratesand prod uctivity. It is important to evaluate the effects of factors affecting calf growth so that appropriate interventions can be devised to improve animal performance. This study was conducted to identify and quantify factors affecting the performance of Sahiwal - Zebu crossbreds from birth to 12 months of age.