Characterization of Cattle Farming in Savanna and Forest Areas in Cote D’ivoire

Abstract

The aim of this study was to characterize cattle (Bos Taurus) breading system in savannah and forest areas in Côte d'Ivoire. To achieve this objective, a formal survey was carried out among 490 breeders. It was carried out by surveys and interviews to characterize the farms. The rearing system, the different breeds bred, the size of the herd, the mode of reproduction and the other associated animal species with cattle breading were observed. The observations were compared by department and agro-ecological zone. The results showed two farming systems. These are the transhumant system and sedentary system. The sedentary system is more used (P<0.05), i.e. 79% of breeders. However, the transhumant system is still common in savannah areas. The livestock was composed mainly of zebu 28%, mestizos 33% and mixed (Zebu, mestizos, Méré, N’dama and Baoulé breeds). The local breeds Méré, Ndama and Baoulé represented less than 2% of the livestock. The size of the herd was less than 100 head in majority (P<0.05). Cattle farming was often associated with traditional poultry farming. This activity is secondary for 70.6% of breeders. The reproductive system was carried out in an uncontrolled manner. The breeding males were in the herd all the time.