COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF LINEAR BODY MEASUREMENTS FOR ESTIMATING BODY WEIGHT IN SHEEP AND GOATS IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study conducted a comparative analysis of linear body measurements for estimating body weight in sheep and goats in Nigeria. A total of 100 animals, comprising 50 sheep and 50 goats, were used for the study. Linear body measurements (body length, height at withers, and heart girth) were taken using a graduated measuring tape, and body weight was recorded using a weighing scale. The results showed significant correlations between body weight and linear body measurements in both sheep and goats. Specifically, the correlations were as follows: In sheep, body weight was significantly correlated with body length (r = 0.85, p < 0.05), height at withers (r = 0.78, p < 0.05), and heart girth (r = 0.92, p < 0.05). In goats, body weight was significantly correlated with body length (r = 0.75, p < 0.05), height at withers (r = 0.65, p < 0.05), and heart girth (r = 0.85, p < 0.05). However, the strength of correlation varied between species and breeds. For example, the correlation between body weight and body length was stronger in sheep (r = 0.85) than in goats (r = 0.75). Similarly, the correlation between body weight and heart girth was stronger in sheep (r = 0.92) than in goats (r = 0.85). In contrast, the correlation between body weight and height at withers was not significant in some breeds of sheep (p > 0.05). Overall, the results suggest that linear body measurements can be used to estimate body weight in sheep and goats, but the accuracy of the estimates may vary depending on the species and breed. In conclusion, linear body measurements are useful for evaluating livestock performance and predicting weight gain. However, more research is needed to understand how breed, sex, and age affect these measurements. This knowledge can help improve animal breeding strategies and productivity.