Characterisation of Mizoram Native Cattle of Indian Origin

Abstract

A total of 33 farmers from 11 villages of Champhai and Kolasib districts were interviewed and 237 animals of different age and sex were recorded for physical and morphometric characteristics and performance to characterise indigenous cattle of Mizoram state. Based on the maximum number of indigenous cattle revealed from livestock census, two districts were selected for survey viz. Champhai (6663) and Kolasib (4720). Animals were reared mainly on extensive management conditions. The body colour varied in different colours i.e. brown (85%), black (11%) and gray (41%). Animals were small in size with cylindrical type of body. Udder was small and milk veins were not prominent. The daily milk production ranged from 1.5 to 3.5 kg. The average milk yield was 1.54±0.11 kg. The average age at first calving, lactation length, dry period, service period, calving interval, herd life and number of calving during life time were 1160 days (28 to 42 months) 178 days (150–210 days), 132 days (120–150 days), 121 days (90–120 days), 638 days (12–24 months), 15–20 years and 8–10 calving, respectively. A pair of bullock may plough about 0.5 acre of land in 5–6 hours. Different body measurements revelead that animals are small in size. It was observed that cows had good potential for milk production in the difficult climate. There is urgent need plan genetic improvement programs to improve the productivity of indigenous cattle of the state.