Morpho-metric characteristics and utility pattern of Khillar cattle in breed tract

Abstract

Khillar (6587) animals of calves below 1 year (791), young stock 1 to 3 years (1139), milking females (1939), working males (2653), breeding bulls (34) and breeding working bulls (31) from 60 randomly selected villages from 12 tahsils in Satara, Sangali and Solapur districts of Western Maharashtra, were studied for morphological characteristics and utility pattern. The results revealed that body confirmation of Khillar animals is well-developed, symmetrical with clearly defined muscles. Barrel is cylindrical with tight skin and long in comparison with height. Forehead is long and narrow and distinct groove runs in centre of forehead from nasal bridge to middle of poll. Muzzle was of black, carroty and mottled colored. Horns are mainly black, carrot colour and mixed and long, pointed and grow curved backwards for half the length and then turned upwards in smooth bow shape. Hump is tightly formed and neck is short, firmly set and found always held straight to body. Dewlap is thin, short and foldless. Mean body weight in respective age groups revealed that these animals are lighter in weight compared to Deoni and heavier to Dangi and Gaolao breeds. The average chest girth, body length and height at withers for males below 1 year, females below 1 year, 1 to 3 year males, 1 to 3 year females, milking females, working males, breeding bulls and breeding and working bulls, were measured. The measurements of tail, ear, horn and face length along with horn circumference and face width were also recorded. The utility of animals indicated that they were mainly used for agricultural operations (61.17%) and nearly one-third fraction of farmers (30.59%) also considered them for milk production.