Assessment of major Health Problem and constraints of Crocodile Skin Production at Arba Minch Crocodile Ranch

Abstract A cross-sectional study was conducted in Arba Minch crocodile ranch (AMCR) with the objective to identify major health problems and constraints of crocodile skin production. For this purpose, data were obtained from 105 purposively selected respondents using structured questionnaire and by filed observation and secondary data from record files. During the study period major infectious and noninfectious diseases, main source of health problem, health problem intervening habit, background of intervening individuals, frequency of skin production and average price of single skin were assessed. According to data obtained from the respondents bacterial infections were found with higher prevalence (34.3%) among the infectious diseases whereas trauma (40%) and poisoning (37.1%) were most frequently occurred noninfectious diseases. Contaminated feed and water and lack of enough sanitation were reported as the main source of health problems. Most frequently practiced intervening habits in the ranch were combination of prophylaxis, treatment and management. According to the data obtained from the respondents back ground of intervening individuals in disease intervention process in AMCR was dominated by layman (34.3%) rather than veterinarian and veterinary technician. Based on the respondents reply, fungal disease is the most frequently occurred skin disease in the ranch. Based on the findings recommendations were forwarded to amend clear policy on crocodile management and apply the code of practices on crocodile management and further expansion of the industry.