Goat Production Systems In Covalima, Timor-Leste, As Perceived By Farmers

Abstract

The goat is a species of small ruminant that has great production potential in Timor-Leste. The objective of this study is to obtain data on the rearing system that are commonly adopted by goat breeders, herd size, and goat production raised in a subsistence rearing system. The data collection period started from August to November 2021. The survey method was used in this study. To determine the sample size, Slovin’s method was used, and, to determine the respondents, simple random sampling was used. The variables observed were herd size, herd structure, gestation period, litter size, age at weaning, age of first kidding, mortality rate, and production system. The survey results showed that all the producers interviewed generally still use the traditional extensive system, not worrying about the problem of feed quality and frequency of feeding the animals. Using only local feed as a complementary alternative to animal feed, and does not deal well with the problem of reproduction rate, the gestational age of the goats thus makes the number of litters low, only 1 to 2 heads per kidding. However, the mortality rate is low, about 1% per kidding; the age at first kidding is about 12 months and the weaning age of the pups is 3 to 5 months. It is recommended to improve the breeding system with good management to increase the productivity of the goats in the future, so that can bring high benefit benefits.