Livestock Production and Management (AnSc 261) 2024/25 Gambella University PDF

Gambella University Department of Animal science Livestock Production and Management (AnSc 261), 3chr By: Aregawi Z.(MSc) 2024/25  Chapter Six: Sheep and Goat Production Introduction  Sheep and goats are among the major e...

Gambella University Department of Animal science Livestock Production and Management (AnSc 261), 3chr By: Aregawi Z.(MSc) 2024/25  Chapter Six: Sheep and Goat Production Introduction  Sheep and goats are among the major economically important livestock in Ethiopia.  Ethiopia has one of the largest populations of small ruminants:  42.9 million sheep in the world  52.5 million goats in the world  sheep and goat population accounts around 10% of Africa’s and 4% of the world’s livestock population.  They make up about 25% of the value of meat produced in Ethiopia  Although the small ruminant population is large and rapidly growing 6.1. Domestication, Distribution and Zoological classification of Sheep and Goats A. Domestication Sheep (Ovis aries) and goats (Capra hircus) are among the earliest domesticated animals, with origins tracing back to the Fertile Crescent around 10,500 years ago. Sheep Origins: The domestication of sheep is believed to have begun between 11,000 and 9,000 years ago, primarily from the wild mouflon (Ovis orientalis). Characteristics: Sheep were favored for their manageable size, social behavior, and high reproductive rates. 12/26/2024 3 Genetic Diversity: Selective breeding has led to a wide variety of sheep breeds tailored for specific traits such as wool quality and meat production. Goats Origins: Goats were domesticated from the bezoar ibex (Capra aegagrus), with evidence suggesting domestication began around 8,000 years ago, in southeastern Anatolia and the Zagros Mountains. Adaptability: Their social nature and adaptability to various environments made them suitable for domestication. Goats provided meat, milk, clothing, and even building materials for early farming communities. 12/26/2024 4 Genetic Diversity: Over 300 distinct breeds of goats have been developed through selective breeding for traits like milk yield and meat quality. B. Distribution The distribution of sheep and goats is extensive, reflecting their adaptation to diverse environments and agricultural practices: Global Distribution Mediterranean Basin: This region hosts a significant concentration of both sheep and goats. Countries like Turkey and Iran are key players in sheep production. Oceania: Australia is a major producer of sheep, particularly for wool, with a ratio of approximately 870 sheep per 100 inhabitants. 12/26/2024 5 Africa: Sub-Saharan Africa has a high density of goats, with countries like: South Africa leading in goat farming. Asia: India has a large goat population but lower density per capita. The Middle East remains a critical area for both species. South America: Countries such as Argentina focus on sheep farming for meat and wool. C. Zoological Classification Both sheep and goats belong to the family Bovidae, subfamily Caprinae, which includes various ruminants. 12/26/2024 6 Common Name Scientific Name Genus  Sheep Ovis aries Ovis  Goat Capra hircus Capra Characteristics Both species share common traits typical of bovids, such as: hooves and herbivorous diets. They exhibit significant behavioral changes due to domestication, including:  reduced fear of humans and altered social structures. 12/26/2024 7 6.2. Attributes of Sheep and Goats A. Physical Characteristics Sheep and goats exhibit distinct physical traits that reflect their adaptations and roles in agriculture. While they share some similarities, several key differences help differentiate the two species. Sheep (Ovis aries) Body Structure: Sheep typically have a more robust and stocky build compared to goats. They possess a deep, wide body, which is characteristic of mutton-type breeds. A well-balanced sheep has a strong constitution, with evenly placed legs and a symmetrical body shape. 12/26/2024 8 Wool: Most sheep breeds are characterized by their wool production, which can vary in quality and density. Tail: Sheep tails hang downwards, which is a distinctive feature compared to goats. Facial Features: Sheep have a divided upper lip (philtrum), aiding in grazing efficiency. Their heads are typically clean-cut and well-shaped, with variations depending on the breed. Sexual Dimorphism: Rams (male sheep) exhibit more pronounced masculine features, such as thicker necks and larger heads, while ewes (female sheep) tend to have finer features. 12/26/2024 9 Goats (Capra hircus) Body Structure: Goats are generally more agile and slender than sheep. They have a longer body with well-sprung ribs that create a barrel effect. This structure aids in their climbing abilities and adaptability to various terrains. Hair: Unlike sheep, goats have hair instead of wool. Some breeds may produce cashmere or mohair, but they do not produce fleece in the same way that sheep do. Tail: Goat tails are erect, contrasting with the downward-hanging tails of sheep. Facial Features: Goats often have beards and possess horns in both sexes, although hornless breeds exist. Their heads are typically longer and more angular compared to sheep. 12/26/2024 10 B. Behavior and Feeding Habitat Goats are browsing species and preferring to eat leaves, twigs, vines, and shrubs. Goats are very agile and will stand on their hind legs to reach vegetation. They like to eat the tops of plants and they are require and select a more nutritious diet. Sheep are Grazing species and preferring to eat short, tender grasses and clover. They like to graze close to the soil surface. Their dietary preference is forbs (broadleaf weeds) Sheep are more fearful and shy, while goats are more reactive and aggressive. Sheep have a strong tendency to group or “flock” together, while goats are more independent. 12/26/2024 11  6.3. Sheep and Goat breeds A breed is defined as a specific group of domesticated animals that share common characteristics, such as appearance (phenotype), behavior, and genetic traits, which distinguish them from other groups within the same species. Sheep and goats are vital livestock species worldwide, each comprising numerous breeds that have been developed for specific purposes such as meat, milk, wool, and fiber production. The diversity of sheep and goat breeds reflects their adaptation to various environments and agricultural practices. Understanding these breeds is essential for effective livestock management and optimizing production based on specific needs such as meat, milk, or fiber 12/26/2024 12  6.3.1 Criteria for breed classification Sheep and goats are classified into various breeds based on several criteria, including physical characteristics, purpose (such as meat, milk, or wool production), and geographic origin. A. Sheep Breeds Sheep breeds are typically categorized into six main types based on their primary use: 1. Meat Breeds Suffolk: Known for its excellent meat quality; has a black face and legs. Hampshire: A large breed with dark faces, primarily raised for mutton. 12/26/2024 13 Dorset: Can breed out of season; produces high-quality meat. 2. Fine Wool Breeds Merino: Renowned for its fine wool; highly valued in the textile industry. Rambouillet: Developed from Merino stock; produces high-quality wool. 3. Long Wool Breeds Lincoln: The largest sheep breed, known for its long, coarse wool used in carpets. Romney: Raised for both meat and wool; has a long staple length. 4. Dual Purpose Breeds Columbia: Known for both wool and meat production; heavy fleece yield. 12/26/2024 A crossbreed that provides good quality meat and wool. Corriedale: 14 5. Hair Breeds Dorper: Developed in South Africa; known for its hardiness and meat quality without the need for shearing. Katahdin: A hair sheep breed that is adaptable to various climates. 6. Minor Breeds Jacob: Known for its unique spotted fleece and multiple horns. Shetland: A small breed valued for its fine wool and adaptability to harsh conditions. B. Goat Breeds Goat breeds are classified based on their primary use as well: 12/26/2024 15 1. Dairy Breeds Saanen: One of the highest milk-producing breeds; white or cream-colored. Nubian: Known for its rich milk with high butterfat content; has long ears and a distinctive appearance. 2. Meat Breeds Boer: Originally from South Africa; known for rapid growth rates and high-quality meat. Kiko: Developed in New Zealand; hardy and good for meat production. 3. Fiber Breeds Angora: Produces mohair; known for its long, lustrous fiber. Cashmere: Produces cashmere fiber; valued for its softness and warmth. 12/26/2024 16 4. Multi-Purpose Breeds Alpine: Versatile breed used for both milk and meat production. Toggenburg: Known for good milk production; also used as a meat goat. Generally the classification of sheep and goats into various breeds reflects their adaptability to different environments and their specialized roles in agriculture. Understanding these breeds helps farmers optimize their breeding practices to meet specific production goals, whether it be for meat, milk, or fiber. 12/26/2024 17