Some production traits of the West African Dwarf goat.

A study of West African Dwarf goats over a 5 year period indicated that these animals are not seasonal breeders but kid throughout the year. Sixty-five per cent of does kidded twice a year and multiple births accounted for 59% of all births. Seventy-two per cent of all deaths were of kids under 3 months of age. Pneumonia and starvation were the main causes of death. It is suggested that this is potentially a prolific breed which with proper husbandry and selection could help to meet the need for animal protein in sub-Saharan West Africa.