Influence of Wattle on Body Weight and Linear Body Measurements Red Sokoto Does Kept Semi-Intensively in Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

A study aimed at evaluating the influence of wattle on the body weight and linear body measurements was carried out using 32 Red Sokoto does (ages ranging between six months to twelve months) raised semi intensively in Niger State. The study lasted for a year during which data were collected on the body weight and linear body measurement before the does were mated and after kidding. Data obtained were subjected to statistical package (SAS, 2000). It was observed that only the body length, head length, head width and the fore leg length were significantly influenced (p>0.05) by the presence of wattle before mating. The body weight and linear body measurements of does after kidding were however not affected (p<0.05) by the presence of wattle. Based on the outcome of this study it was concluded that does with wattle gene were not superior to does without wattle in body weight and linear body measurements.