THE EFFECT OF SOME NON-GENETIC FACTORS ON MILK PRODUCTION AND OFFSPRING GROWTH IN THE IRAQI LOCAL GOAT BREED

Objective:  This work sought to investigate how several non-genetic elements affected goat milk production and offspring growth performance. Method: The study was conducted at the Ruminant Research Station, Abu Ghraib, from 2021 to 2024 using 310 records. Factors evaluated included sex of offspring, type of birth, month of birth, dam's weight and age, and year of production on birth weight, weaning weight, average daily gain, and milk yield. Herd management involved semi-open sheds, grazing with supplemental feeding, natural mating, and veterinary care. Milk yield was recorded manually 15 days postpartum, and body weights measured at birth and weaning, with ADG calculated as (Weaning Weight − Birth Weight)/120 days. Statistical analysis used SAS software, Least Squares Method, and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Results: Sex of offspring did not significantly affect milk yield (P > 0.05), while type of birth, maternal age, and weight had significant effects (P < 0.05–0.01). Production year significantly affected milk yield (P < 0.01), with 2024 being superior. For growth, sex had no effect on birth weight (P > 0.05) but influenced weaning weight and daily gain (P < 0.01), favoring males. Single-born kids outperformed twins (P < 0.01), maternal age influenced daily gain (P < 0.05), and maternal weight affected all growth traits (P < 0.01). Month of birth had minimal impact. Novelty: This study highlights the significant influence of non-genetic factors on milk production and offspring growth in local goats over four years, emphasizing 2024 as a notably productive year. Insights provide practical guidance for herd management and breeding strategies to optimize performance.

Kata Kunci