Reproductive Performance of Local Rabbits from Three Ecotypes in Northern Ghana

Abstract

Abstract
The objective of this study was to compare the reproductive performance of local rabbits from three different locations in northern Ghana. Purposive sampling was used to acquire 90 weaned rabbits, which were reared for nine months. In all, 24 females and 6 males were reared in each of the three regions in northern part of Ghana (Northern, Upper East and Upper West) for reproductive traits measurement. Parameters measured were gestation, litter size at birth, litter size at weaning, birth weight and weaning weight. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using SPSS. Average of three kindles per doe was recorded over nine months. Litter size ranged from 1 to 5 kits in the first kindle (parity) in all the regions. It however, increased from 1 to 8 kits in the second and third parity (kindle). Animals in the Upper West region weighed heavier than those in the other regions except weaning weight in the first kindle in which case the Northern region was superior. Birth weight in northern region was lower (p < 0.05) than that of Upper West region but similar (p > 0.05) to that of the Upper East region. Upper West region had the highest birth weight (p < 0.01) than Northern and Upper East regions. Location (region) influenced both birth and weaning weights and so should be considered in selection and breeding of rabbits in this part of the country. Preweaning mortality was high when does were beginners in reproduction.
Keywords: Mortality, kindling, weaning weight, gestation, litter size

Cite this Article
Husein Shuaib MA, Naandam Jakpa, Annor Serekye Y, et al. Reproductive Performance of Local Rabbits from Three Ecotypes in Northern Ghana. Research & Reviews: Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology. 2016; 5(3): 14–20p.