Unique Characteristics, Biometric Measurements, Management and Performance Parameters of Balochi Sheep

This study was conducted to assess the characteristics, management practices, production systems and performance parameters of Balochi sheep in the Pakistan province of Balochistan. The Balochi breed is highly adapted to the harsh agro-climatic conditions of Balochistan. Data for Balochi sheep (n=7049) from fifteen different villages in three districts (Kalat, Mastung, Quetta) of Balochistan were collected regarding feeding, management practices, health practices and productive performance through proforma and individual perceptions. Body weights and other biometric measurements were recorded for rams and ewes from the three districts and from the Multi-Purpose Sheep Research Station Yetabad, Loralai (MSRSYL). The Balochi breed is a distinctive sheep with unique characteristics. They display a white body with a black, brown or spotted muzzle and legs. They have a firm medium-sized body, intermediate ears, Roman nose, pendulous belly, commonly polled and with a fat tail. Balochi sheep were found mostly in Kalat and in part of the Quetta division, and also thinly populated throughout the rest of the Balochistan province. Sexual dimorphism was evident for several traits, for example, it had a significant effect (p<0.05) on body weight, body length, heart girth and wither height, whilst tail length did not vary significantly between the sexes (p>0.05). Balochi sheep husbandry is favored in the region because of its adaptability, great survival rate and growth performance, however the returns from sheep production are marginal and low cost production is still a challenge.