ANIM 312: Introduction to Ruminant Production

Definitions, points of the animal and strategic importance of ruminants to human needs.  Origin and distribution of sheep, goats and cattle in Africa.  Systematic classification and feeding behaviour of small ruminants and cattle.  Characteristics of specialized beef breeds of cattle.  Ghanaian cattle breed and characteristics.  Factors affecting small ruminant and beef production and constraints to enhanced productivity.  Increasing the efficiency of ruminant production-issues to consider.  Selection of site, housing and environmental control.  Selection and care of foundation, breeding and replacement stock and herd.  Systems of husbandry practices in feeding, breeding, record keeping and marketing.