Reproductive Efficiencies and Productive Potentials of Female Nigerian Indigenous Goat Breeds

Purpose: The overall objective of this study was to examine the reproductive and productive abilities of three Nigerian indigenous goat breeds. Methodology: The study covered 108 primiparous does and nine bucks from Sahel (SH), Red Sokoto (RS), and West African dwarf (WAD) goat breeds. In different pens, the animals were bred in various combinations: RS x RS, WAD x WAD, SH x SH, RS x SH, RS x WAD, SH x RS, and SH x WAD. WAD x SH, WAD x RS. Estrus synchronization was done using prostaglandins. Mating occurred naturally when animals were on heat. Dams were given special care throughout pregnancy. The study measured dams' weights, litter size, and pre-weaning mortality rates in kids. The total kid crop and sexes were also assessed. We measured dam lactation weight loss, birth weight, and weaning weight. SPSS, ANOVA, and the Turkey statistical test were used for data analysis. Findings: The result showed that there was a significant (P<0.05) difference in the weight of does at kidding. The weight of does at weaning varied significantly (P<0.05). Litter size significantly (P<0.05) affected the birth weight and weaning weight of kids. An increase in litter size per birth resulted in a significant (P<0.05) rise in kid mortality rates. Breed type significantly (P<0.05) affected doe production efficiency and weaning weight ratio. Although WAD x WAD goats had lower birth and weaning weights, hybrid vigour (birth and weaning weights) improved significantly (P<0.05) when cross-bred with SH or RS breeds. When crossed with SH or WAD goat breeds, RS breeds had the greatest positive effect on hybrid vigour (heterosis), followed by SH breeds. Both SH x RS and RS x SH progenies recorded higher hybrid vigour than the other nine bred line progenies. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: This study found that Nigerian indigenous goat breeds had great reproductive efficiency and breeding potential if properly managed. Genetic variations observed in the study could improve Kids crop, birth weight, litter size, hybrid vigour, and pre-weaning survivorship due to their broad variety. This study recommends a careful selection and crossbreeding of Nigerian indigenous goat breeds with suitable pedigree in order to increase their productivity.