Studies on Draughtability of Non-Descript Bullock Breeds of Odisha

Abstract

A study on the draughtability of small-sized bullock was conducted in Odisha with CIAE animal loading car at varying draft loads in different seasons with respect to body weight. Physiological responses of the bullocks such as pulse rate, respiration rate and body temperature were recorded, and power output as well as fatigue score were determined on hourly intervals. It was observed that physiological responses were predominantly affected by the ambient conditions at a particular load. At 9% load, the bullocks got fatigued during 4th hour of work but sustained the loads of 7% and 8% of body weight for 4 h of work in summer. Similarly, at 10% load, the bullocks got fatigued during 4th hour of work but sustained the loads of 8% and 9% of body weight for 4 h of work in rainy season. The bullocks sustained the loads of 9%, 10% and 11% of body weight for 4 h of work during the winter months. However, during 4th hour of work at 11% load in winter, the determined fatigue score of 19 was approaching to the threshold value of allowable fatigue level and the bullocks were found to be slightly unstable to work. Considering the fatigue score and power output, it was observed that the bullocks could sustain draft load of 8% in summer, 9% in rainy and 11% in winter season.