Status of small ruminant production in six selected communities in Delta States

Abstract

The study examined the status of small ruminant production in some selected communities in Delta State vis-à-vis identifying the type of people involved in it; their response to modern livestock practices and determining factors affecting their stock size. Data were obtained from 90 respondents. Results of data analysis showed the respondents' mean age, household size, stock size, net income were 46 years, 9, 10 and N10,388.00 respectively. Small ruminant farming is dominated by females, illiterates and married people whose use of modern livestock practices was low. Goat was the predominant animal kept under a largely semi-intensive system. Contact with extension agents was almost non-existent while pest and disease infestation, inadequate capital and theft of animals were important production constraints. Producers should be discouraged from self-advised animal medication, while the extension agency should improve its services to small ruminant producers.


(Af. J. of Livestock Extension: 2003 2: 67-71)