Non-genetic factors and milk yield of creole goats in a semi-extensive system in Huaura, Perú

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the effect of some non-genetic factors on the milk yield of creole goats under a semi-extensive system in the Huaura valley, Peru. Methodology. Sixteen creole goats from the first to the third parturition were used. Milking was done manually once a day. Milking control was performed every two weeks. The goats were grazed on crop residues from the area. The effect of parity number, litter size and kidding season on actual milk production,lactation length and standardized milk production was evaluated. Results. The parity number influenced actual milk production, lactation length and standardized milk production (p<0.05), the kidding season only influenced lactation length (p<0.05), while litter size had no influence on the variables studied (p>0.05). Conclusions. In creole goats, the non-genetic factors parity number and kidding season had a marked influence on milk yield, while litter size had no effect.