Growth Performance of Murrah Buffalo Calves under Humid Tropical Conditions of Kerala

Data obtained from Murrah buffalo herd maintained at Livestock Research Station, Thiruvazhamkunnu (Kerala) was analysed to determine average birth weight and average daily gain of calves. Mean body weight (±SE) at birth observed was 34.76 ± 0.54 Kg. Body weight at birth of female and male Murrah calves were 32.83 ± 0.63 Kg and 37.06 ± 0.73 Kg respectively. Significant difference was observed between sexes with respect to birth weight and body weight at 15 days of age (p<0.05). Average daily gain observed in male and female calves during 90 day period was 0.595 Kg and 0.612 Kg respectively. Difference in average daily gain was not statistically significant, except between 30–45 days during which female calves gained more weight than males (p<0.05).