Evaluation of Saudi camel calves' performance under an improved management system

Abstract

This study was carried out at the camel research station of the Range and Animal Development Research Center in Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia, under improved management feeding and veterinary care. During 14 seasons, 242 camel calves were born. Among them 137 (56.6%) were males and 105 (43.4%) were females. Birth weights were taken for 239 calves over 14 seasons. The average weight was 37.5 kg for 136 males and 37.3 kg for 103 females. The dam age and season affected the birth weight. Mortality was recorded in 38 (13.7%) camel calves between birth and three years of age. The average weight at three years was 489.3 kg and 486.6 kg for 32 males and 49 females, respectively.