![]() Common performance data includes the following items.īirth weight: Most kids should weigh between 5 and 8 pounds at birth, depending on the mature size of their parents. Performance data collected on individual goats can be interpreted at the farm level or can be sent to NSIP to develop EBVs. Producers can also utilize records on progeny to make culling decisions once does and bucks produce offspring. This is especially important for identifying animals within the herd that do not produce offspring that meet minimum production standards. In addition, records allow producers to make informed decisions for both selecting replacement animals and for culling poor performing animals. Participating in the EBV program helps producers improve genetic predictability in order to produce a more consistent product, which could be breeding stock or meat for customers. This database uses a record keeping software called Pedigree Master to submit data for LambPlan. ![]() The National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) uses data collected on a farm and makes genetic connections to other herds through a database in Australia known as LambPlan. While an individual's performance within a herd is still useful information the performance of that individual will be influenced by management and environmental factors in addition to genetics. EBVs are measurements of heritable traits such as number of kids born, weaning and post weaning weights, and carcass traits. EBVs are the preferred selection parameter because these numbers focus on genetic estimates for performance across a breed. When selecting bucks based on data, there are two options: EBVs and individual performance within a herd. Producers collect these data starting when kids are born and add information throughout a doe's or buck's life. One of the best ways to compare individual goats is by using data. Therefore, always consider several traits in order to select a buck that will move the herd toward more optimum genetics. Single trait selection often results in decreased desirability of other important traits. Once the top traits desired in the new buck have been identified, then the selection process can begin. These EBV traits are available for meat goat producers who enroll their herd in the National Sheep Improvement Program. Another category to consider, depending on operation needs, would be parasite resistance. Maternal traits often include number kids born and number kids weaned and may include scrotal circumference of the bucks, because bucks with larger scrotal size tend to sire does with improved reproductive performance. Growth traits include weaning and post weaning weights, while carcass traits include loin depth (or size) and fat thickness. These traits can be classified into categories such as growth traits, carcass traits, or maternal traits. Finally, rank the traits that a buck should possess to best fit the operation's goals. Doe estimated breeding values (EBVs) or production records from the past couple years can be used to assess these strengths and weaknesses. Then, producers should analyze what traits would be considered weaknesses. ![]() When selecting a buck, producers should begin by analyzing what production traits the does in the herd exhibit as strengths. Buck selection principles should consider a number of different aspects, including performance, visual appraisal and cost. Improving genetics within a herd starts with selecting a quality buck that complements existing doe traits and improves any weaknesses in the herd.
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