FIELD ASSESSMENT OF BREEDING BULL PERFORMANCE AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN WEST-CENTRAL AND EAST-CENTRAL BHUTAN

Abstract

This study examined the field performance of breeding bulls by comparing reported performance records with verified field data. We interviewed 195 farmers and evaluated 84 breeding bulls. The reported mean (±SD) values for the number of services, progeny produced, and natural service success rate were 14.9 ± 19.4 per bull per year, 8.8 ± 14.0 per bull per year, and 48.1 ± 30.5%, respectively. The validated values were significantly higher at 40.6 ± 32.9 per bull per year, 28.3 ± 26.3 per bull per year, and 65.6 ± 21.5%. We found significant differences between reported and validated performance records (p < 0.001), indicating major inaccuracies in the current reporting system. The coverage of breeding bulls recorded was 42.9%. Most bulls were supplied through community requests (85.6%) and managed effectively under the existing system. The bulls were generally healthy, with a mean body condition score of 3.05 ± 0.58; no significant differences were noted between regions. A strong link was found between existing and preferred bull management systems (p < 0.001). The payment of mating allowances positively impacted the health and performance of breeding bulls. Despite the bulls being in good health and well managed, 94.1% had not been screened for infectious diseases after being deployed in the field. Additionally, recommended practices, such as replacing breeding bulls within three years and sterilizing scrub bulls, were not adequately followed. To improve the effectiveness and sustainability of the breeding bull program, this study suggests strengthening performance recording and validation systems. It also recommends maintaining the current community-based procurement and Contract Bull Keeper management approach, ensuring timely payment of mating allowances, conducting annual disease screenings, and enforcing the timely replacement of breeding bulls and sterilization of scrub bulls.