Effect of non-genetic factors on body weight in tellicherry goats

Data on 730 Tellicherry goats, maintained at Mecheri Sheep Research Station, Pottaneri, Salem and recorded between 1989 and 2012 were analysed to study the effect of non-genetic factors affecting the body weight and average daily gain from birth to twelve months of age. The least squares means for birth, 3, 6, 9and 12 months body weights were 2.26±0.02, 8.58±0.11, 12.37±0.15, 15.81±0.19 and 19.69±0.29 kg, respectively. The pre- and post-weaning average daily gains were 70.15±1.15 and 30.48±1.11g, respectively and the associated growth efficiencies were 3.86±0.05 and 1.25±0.01, respectively. Males were significantly heavier and had a higher weight gain than females during all stages of growth and their differences tended to increase with age. Significant differences (P<0.001) associated with the year of kidding were observed in body weight and weight gain at different stages of growth. The birth weight of kids born between March and May was significantly lower than those born in other months. However, they attained a higher weight during 12 months of age. These variations can be correlated with the seasonal changes and the availability of fodder. Hence, it is necessary to plan the kidding season rationally by controlling the oestrus and mating time.