A Retrospective Study on Calf Mortality in Wolaita Soddo Jersey Cattle Breeding and Multiplication Center, Wolaita Soddo, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

A retrospective study of calf mortality on calves born from 1998-2007 at Wolaita Soddo Cattle Breeding and Multiplication Center was conducted from December 2006 to May 2007. Data was collected from the farm record book containing relevant information of 10 years. Data analysis was done on 415 calves born during the study period to evaluate the effect of birth year and birth season on calf mortality. Even though the result had not statically significant, it was recorded a relatively high mortality in 2000 and during long dry season. Out of 451 calve born alive, 50 calves were died below one-year of age. The overall calf mortality rates averaged 22%, 16% and 62% for calves between birth and 90 days, 91-180 days and above 180 days but less than one year respectively. Proportionally, the highest mortality rate occurred in age above 180 days but within one year age and the lowest death rate occurred in between 91 and 180 days. The result of the present study revealed that calf mortality in the farm was higher than economically tolerable level which could be achieved through good management. This indicates that efforts are need to be concentrated in improving the management; health care and nutritional status of the calves in particular and the whole farm in general.

Keywords: Calf mortality, Jersey, Season of birth, Year of birth, Wolaita Soddo