A Case Study on Camel's Production System in Marsa-Matrouh Governorate, Egypt دراسة حالة على نظام إنتاج الإبل فى محافظة مرسى مطروح بمصر

Abstract

The objective of this study is to characterize the prevailing production system of raising camels in Marsa-Matrouh governorate in Egypt. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed to collect the required data randomly from 58 respondents in four regions, during the year 2020/2021. The questionnaire contains socioeconomic characteristics, herd size, management practices, milk production, reproduction performance, birth and weaning weights, and the main constraints. The obtained results showed that more than 95% of the camel's breeders were illiterate or barely read and write. Their main job is farming. Most of the breeders were landowners. The majority of the breeders are raising sheep, goats, and poultry besides camels. All camel breeders are applying natural mating. The average age of the camel at first calving was 5.5 years, and days open were 56.4 days. Calving interval ranged from 20.8 to 22.1 months. Daily milk yield was ranged from 5-10kg/head, and lactation period was around 9 months. The average birth weight for both female and male calves was 30kg and 35kg, respectively. Camel calves are weaned at about 145kg and 7 months age. The main constraints facing camel breeders were increasing feeding costs, water shortage, poor pasture, and poor veterinary care.The study concluded that camels play an important role for the people living in the harsh climate. Camel breeders are facing many problems which affect camel productivity and reflect on their economic livelihood. Proper and prompt moving is badly needed to optimize performance and achieve efficient camel production and economic return.