Assessment on Performance of Crossbreed Dairy Cows in Mersa Town, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess productive  and reproductive performances  of cross  breed  dairy  cows in Habru district, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia. For this study two kebeles were selected namely mersa 01 and 02. Data was gathered by interviewing the owner of the cross- breed dairy cows.  A descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data such as frequency, percentage and mean. According to key informants, all households use semi intensive dairy production system. The main feed sourse in the study area was crop residue, natural pastures and hay. All households use cattle house made up of  wood with metal and plastic cover. Breeding methods of both natural and  artificial insemination (AI) method were also employed. Average mtlk yield of 5.75liters of milk  per day and lactation  length of 9 months were found. The average calving   interval  of those crossbred dairy cows  were  between 1-1.2  years  and  most of the householdes (60%) indicate  cows  came to heat  2-3 months  post  calving. Moreover, age at first calving (AFC) of 2.5-3 years were found. The most constraints that hinders the productivity of the dairy cattle in the study area were shortage of feed, low management and diseases like mastitis. However, households indicate as there opportunities such as introducing Artificial insemination services for herd improvement. Based  on the result obtained, it is  recommend that  awareness  about crossbred dairy cattle management and use of improved reproductive technologies like artificial insemination should be created.

Keywords:  Cross breed, Dairy cattle, Productive performance, Reproduction performance

DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/9-23-04

Publication date: December 31st 2019