Effect of floor types and seasons on behavioural activities of Surti goats

Abstract

Present study was conducted to assess effect of floor types on behaviour of Surti goats under stall-feeding system in cold, hot dry and hot humid seasons. Adult dry Surti goats (27) were divided randomly on body weight (20-30 kg) basis in three treatment groups (T1: earthen floor, T2: brick floor and T3: cement concrete floor). In each treatment, six goats were selected for behavioural observations. Different behavioural patterns exhibited by goats were recorded continuously for 24 h by mini PTZ IR camera in each experimental phase. Time spent in each of the behavioural categories were recorded, i.e. feeding, drinking, standing, lying, moving and agonistic behaviour. Feeding time (min./d) was significantly higher in goats reared on brick (319.83±17.58) and cement concrete (316.22±16.02) floor but dry matter intake (g/min.) (2.92±0.11) was significantly higher in goats reared on earthen floor. Standing time (min./d) in covered area was significantly higher on brick floor. Time spent by goats for lying (min./d) in covered area on earthen (712.17±51.92) and cement concrete (855.83±20.19) floor was comparable but significantly higher as compared to brick floor (338.56±70.98). Time spent for lying (min./d) in covered area was significantly higher in summer season (786.78±45.02). Irrespective of floor and season, goats spent maximum time for lying (55.49%), standing (22.52%) and feeding (21.07%) whereas minimum time spent for other activities. The results indicated that earthen and cement concrete floor were better in terms of welfare and comfort level of goats under stall-fed rearing system.