Relationships between different body characteristics and milk yield traits in Kilis goats

Abstract

Aims: In this study, the correlations between some body body and udder measurements and milk yield characteristics for Kilis goats were investigated. Methods and Results: This study investigating the relationship between different body measurements and some lactation characteristics was carried out with Kilis goats raised in Kilis province. The animal material of the study was consisted of 100 head Kilis goats. Body and udder measurements were determined by using measuring sticks or tape measure. Lactation characteristics were calculated using the ICAR-AT method. At the end of the study, it was determined that Kilis goats had 58% twinning rate and their lactation milk yield ranged between 200.0 ± 9.32 and 213.1 ± 6.05 liters and the lactation period ranged from 251.4 ± 1.99 to 256.4 ± 8.27 days. Conclusions: In the study, positive and significant correlations were determined between lactation milk yield and body weight, body length, width between front shoulders at P < 0.05 and chest circumference at P < 0.01 significance level. Also, positive and significant correlations (P <0.01) were also determined between lactation milk yield and some udder measurements. Significance and Impact of the Study: It can be stated that these features can be used in breeding stock selection according to subjective criteria.