Growth rate of Madras Red sheep in farmers’ flocks

The absolute growth rate (Average Daily Gain) of Madras Red sheep at different stages of growth from birth to 12 months was analyzed and the influence of non-genetic factors on them was assessed. The mean absolute growth rate for birth-3 months, 3–6, 6–9 and 9–12 months were 73.74 ± 0.14, 60.17 ± 0.27, 42.39 ± 0.20 and 23.81 ± 0.31 g respectively. The average pre-weaning growth rate was high and reduced progressively at post-weaning. The lambs born in off-season grew faster than main-season lambs and males grew faster than females at all stages of growth. The significant influence of ram and ewe weight at lambing was also observed. The heritability estimates of absolute growth rate computed by paternal half-sib analysis indicated the scope for improvement through selection.