Effects of supplemental feeding on performance of Kilis goats kept on pasture condition

Abstract

In this study, the effects of supplemental feeding to extensive pasture condition on some reproductive and milk yield characteristics in Kilis goats have been investigated. For this study, 180 Kilis goats were used. These goats were assigned into two groups as control and treatment. Control goats were allowed to graze pasture, while treatment goats were additionally fed 750 g/day with concentrated feed per head plus pasture facility. At the end of the study the average fertility rate, marketable milk yield, lactation length and lactation milk yield were determined as 115.56%, 215.5 ± 5.28 l, 212.5 ± 1.09 days 293.7 ± 5.76 l, respectively, in the control goats; 131.1%, 304.1 ± 6.48 l, 256.5 ± 1.79 days, 408.3 ± 7.21 l, respectively, in the treatment goats. To conclude, supplementary feeding plus pasture improved reproductive and milk yield performance in Kilis goats.