Bhutan Journal of Animal Science

DAIRY COMMERCIALIZATION IN MOUNTAIN FARMING ENVIRONMENT OF BUMTHANG DISTRICT: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

Nar B Tamang, Aita Kumar Bhujel — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Developing smallholder mountain dairy farming is of paramount importance for commercialization and livelihood sustenance of dairy farmers. With the objective to understand the prospects and challenges to commercialize mountain dairy farming, a study was conducted in Bumthang district involving 40 dairy farms covering 14 villages. All the sample farms were categorized into small and medium sizes based on number of milking cattle and was purposively sampled for data collection. The result indicated that Jersey cross breed is the most preferred breed accounting to 65% of total crossbred population. The mean number of milking cows reared was 3±1.08 and 7±1.5 (Mean±SD) for small and medium farms and the corresponding daily milk production was 19 l/day and 47.7 l/day respectively. There was significant difference (p<0.000) in monthly gross income between the two categories of farms. The availability of high proportion of Jersey cross heifers (51%) in the sampled farms is an evident of quality stock available for herd replacement and dairy commercialization. To further enhance milk production, 88% of the respondent farmers were keen to upgrade their herd genetics, improve dairy nutrition and strengthen farmers institutions for venturing into sustainable dairy farming with economy of scale. However, there are socio-economic and environmental factors that limit dairy farmers in maximizing their production efforts. Nevertheless, pivotal role played by Milk Processing Units in absorbing maximum milk from dairy farmers had increased volume of milk production and collection over the years. Hence, a concerted effort from farmers and extension staff is crucial to overcome the current challenges, while at the same time strengthening the dairy value chain management will encourage farmers in transitioning from subsistence to commercialize dairy farming for its sustainability.

ASSESSMENT OF THE NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF MAIZE STOVER SILAGE ENRICHED WITH LOCAL DISTILLATE RESIDUE AND ITS FEASIBILITY AS WINTER FODDER

Selden Ghalley, Penjor — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

ABSTRACT: To address the shortage of nutritional feed for the cattle during winter season, maize stover was enriched with 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% of local distillate residue (LDR) in the portable plastic bags (PPBs). The physical characteristic, pH, nutrient composition, and aerobic stability of the silage were determined at 60 days of ensiling. The palatability of the silage was determined by feeding the Jersey cows at the College of Natural Resources (CNR) dairy farm, at Lobesa, Punakha. The experimental design adopted was completely randomized. All the treatments had acceptable physical characteristics regarding colour, smell, and texture. The pH for all the treatments varied from 4.52 – 3.12, indicating adequate fermentation. Dry matter (DM) content of the silage was 21.84%, 21.79%, 18.79%, and 18.02% while crude protein (CP) content was 8.83%, 12.25%, 17.51%, and 46.83% for the T0, T1, T2 and T3 respectively. The crude fiber content decreased from 81.32%, 73.54%, 33.99%, and 29.79% with the increased inclusion of LDR in the silage. The moisture content was highest for T3 at 81.98% and decreased as the inclusion rate of the LDR reduced. Maize stover silage enriched with LDR exhibited better aerobic stability and lesser likelihood of aerobic deterioration. The palatability percent for the silage with 30% of LDR was high and was considered more palatable and accepted by the Jersey cows. It was concluded that LDR is a suitable residual by-product for ensiling with maize stover, as it enhances the nutrient composition, improves the physical characteristic, increases the palatability of the feed, and provides better aerobic stability against deterioration.

ASSESSMENT OF ANIMAL WELFARE, SLAUGHTER PRACTICES AND FOOD SAFETY IN BHUTAN

Jambay Dorjee, Tenzin Penjor, Janga Bdr. Gaylal, Pema Thinley — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

ABSTRACT: This study assessed the animal slaughter practices and welfare standards in Bhutan with an aim to identify best practices for animal slaughtering that is suitable and applicable in the country. The study was conducted in Chukha, Dagana, Samdrupjongkhar, Samtse, Sarpang and Tsirang districts where majority of meat is being produced. A total of 749 respondents were involved which included 200 broiler farms, 548 pig fattener farms and one cattle abattoir across six districts. The results revealed substantial reliance on makeshift slaughtering (86.6%) followed by 12.7% slab slaughtering and 0.7% modern slaughtering facility. Overall, 78.4% of the respondents did not restrain animals prior to slaughter and 82.6% of the broiler and fattener farms did not use any stunning methods. A meager 3.7% of the farm and abattoir personnel reported having some formal training on stunning and slaughtering methods. Out of 18.5% (n=37) broiler farms that used stunning, 29 farms deployed mechanical stunning through blunt object hit and eight farms used electrical stunning. Similarly, out of 16.8% (n=92) fattener farms, 91 farms used mechanical stunning (two captive bolt and 89 sharp/blunt object hit) and one electrical stunning methods. The cattle slaughterhouse used mechanical stunning through sharp object hit behind the nuchal crest. Among various methods of animal slaughter, 48.5% of broiler farms used suffocation method followed by 30.0% manual neck dislocation, 6.0% decapitation, 5.5% each by bleeding and thoracic stick and 2.5% strangulation. Similarly, 97.6% of fattener farms used chest stick for slaughtering pigs followed by 1.8% strangulation, 0.4% suffocation and 0.2% bleeding after stunning. The cattle slaughterhouse used bleeding by severance of blood vessels in the neck after stunning. Overall, this study revealed significant variations in methods and standards of animal slaughtering practices impacting meat hygiene and safety, and compromising animal welfare. In the absence of standard slaughter facilities and prescribed slaughtering methods, lack of competent personnel for animal slaughtering and to minimize risks to personnel, this study recommends the use of captive bolt in cattle and pigs and electrical in poultry as the best method for stunning. This should be followed by suitable slaughter methods either through bleeding by neck stab and chest stick in cattle and pigs and by neck severing in poultry; ensuring welfare of food animals at all times during entire stages preceding the death of an animal. 53.6% of the farms fulfilled the standards prescribed for transportation of meat indicating the poor meat quality and safety thereby highlighting the need to emphasize the strict enforcement of Livestock Rules and Regulations 2017.

IMPACT OF PRESERVATION TECHNIQUES AND STORAGE DURATIONS ON NUTRITIONAL QUALITY OF ROHU AND RAINBOW TROUT

Yeshi Pelden, Karma Wangchuk, Jambay Jambay — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract: Fish, a vital source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients, is highly perishable, necessitating effective preservation methods to maintain its nutritional value and ensure food security. This study assessed the effects of freezing (−20°C) and drying (60–70°C) over storage durations (0, 10, 20, 30 days) on the nutritional composition of Rohu (Labeo rohita) and Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Using a completely randomized design, key nutritional parameters—moisture, protein, crude fat, ash, minerals (calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, sodium), and vitamin C—were analyzed. Results showed freezing retained moisture and fat but caused protein and vitamin C degradation over time, while drying concentrated minerals like phosphorus and iron at the expense of moisture and vitamin C. Ash content increased under both methods due to mineral concentration from moisture loss. Nutrient-specific responses highlighted freezing’s advantage in preserving lipid stability and drying’s role in enhancing mineral density. Statistical analysis revealed significant interactions between preservation treatment and storage duration, influencing moisture, protein, iron, phosphorus, and potassium contents. Specifically, in Rohu, the interaction effects were statistically significant for moisture content F(3,16) = 664, p < .001, protein content F(3,16) = 5.147, p < .01 iron content F(3,16) = 10.73, p < .001, phosphorus content F(3,16) = 68.08, p < .001, and potassium content F(3,16) = 5.801, p < .01. A similar pattern was observed in Rainbow Trout, with significant interactions for the same nutrients. These findings elucidate the biochemical composition effects of preservation methods, offering practical strategies to optimize fish quality and sustainability. This research contributes to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, improving food security, and promoting informed consumer choices.

MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF RAW MILK IN THE WESTERN AND WEST CENTRAL REGIONS OF BHUTAN

Karma T. Lhaden, Phuntsho T. Norbu, Sonam Thinley, Sonam Zangmo, Lokey Thapa — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract: The study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of raw milk in western and west-central regions of Bhutan, including Somatic Cell Counts (SCC) and the Methylene Blue Reduction Time (MBRT) test to form a basis for establishment of milk quality standards. A total of 704 individual raw milk samples and 122 bulk raw milk samples from Milk Processing Units (MPUs), Milk Collection Centres (MCCs) and milk collection sheds were tested for Total Plate Count (TPC), with random samples analyzed for SCC and MBRT. The findings indicated high microbial loads in the raw milk, with only 2.35% and 1.31% of the western region samples, and 27.33% and 21.43% of west-central region samples, complying with EC criteria for processing and consumption, respectively. Whereas, for bulk milk, none from the western region met European criteria, while 7.14% from the west-central region complied with processing criteria. The highest proportion of raw milk was observed as “bad” grade in the western region while raw milk in the west-central region was of “very bad” grade, indicating high microbial loads. For SCC, 72.09% (western) and 70.59% (west-central) of individual samples were found below 2×10⁵ cells/mL, meeting EU safety standards while only 40.23% in western and 57.58% of bulk samples in west-central regions were deemed safe for direct human consumption. Thus, it is suggested that wider adoption of clean milk production practices, prompt chilling and transport below 7°C and effective pasteurization are considered prerequisites to improve the microbial quality of raw milk. Additionally, setting of milk quality standards in the country is recommended which could aid in the improvement of milk quality.

GRAZING RESOURCES FOR YAKS IN MERAK AND SAKTENG: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES

Kencho Rinzin, Karma Dorji, Jambay Dorjee — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Rangelands, known as Tsamdro in Dzongkha (Official language of Bhutan), play a vital role in sustaining the livelihoods of semi-nomadic herders in Merak and Sakteng blocks, providing essential grazing resources for yaks and hybrids of Yak (zo and zom). Major forage species available in summer and winter grazing areas of Merak and Sakteng blocks were assessed. This study examines the current state of grazing resources, challenges faced by herders, and potential management strategies that could be implemented. Data was collected from 145 yak-rearing households using structured interviews and analyzed using SPSS. The findings reveal that herders primarily utilize open meadows in summer (95.86%) and open forests in winter (74.48%), following a transhumance system which is based on seasonal availability of fodder and water. The major grazing resources in summer and winter grazing area are identified. It was however found that the grazing resources are increasingly threatened by invasive plant species, overgrazing, and policy restrictions on pasture management practices such as controlled burning. Encroachment by non-palatable species, particularly Rhododendron arboretum, Juniperus recurva, Rumex nepalensis and Potentilla leuconata has degraded pastureland, reducing forage availability. The respondents reported that despite attempts to improve rangeland productivity through fencing and rotational grazing, herders continue to face shortages, especially in winter. The study highlight the need for sustainable rangeland management practices, including controlled burning, removal of invasive species, and rehabilitation of pasture, to ensure rangeland stability and livelihood sustainability.

QUANTIFICATION OF BUTTER AND COTTAGE CHEESE FROM MILK OF DIFFERENT CATTLE BREEDS

Arpana Rai, Pema Thinley, Jambay Dorjee — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to determine the quantity of butter and cheese produced from
a liter of milk and to derive the relationship between fat and SNF in the production of butter
and cottage cheese. A total of 69 samples each of raw milk, butter and cheese were collected.
The mean fat and SNF content were recorded highest in Jatsham and lowest in Holstein
Friesian. A significant difference (p<0.05) in the milk composition was observed with
exception to water content between the breeds of cattle. The overall mean cottage cheese yield
recorded from 5 ltr of milk is 506.01±97.71g, 454.01±88.08g, 403.5±13.39g, 414.3±70.40g
and 519.84±78.83g for Jersey cross, Holstein Friesian, Nublang/Thrabum, Brown Swiss and
Jatsham respectively. Similarly, the mean butter yield is 240.73±69.58g, 147.36±35.20g,
278.35±38.68g, 200.02±50.43g and 357.54±63.79g for Jersey cross, Holstein Friesian,
Nublang/Thrabum, Brown Swiss and Jatsham respectively. A significance difference (p<0.05)
was observed in cheese and butter production among the different breeds of cattle. A strong
positive and significant correlation is observed between the fat percent and butter production
among the different breeds of cattle. A weak positive correlation is observed between SNF and
cottage cheese yield among the different breeds of cattle. Based on current study it is
concluded that Jatsham produced the highest cottage cheese and butter followed by Nublang
and Jersey cross. To further increase and enhance the quality of dairy products, it is
recommended to improve the technical aspects of milk processing methods with improved
technology.

SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF CRANIUM BIFIDUM WITH MENINGOCELE IN A JERSEY CALF UNDER RESOURCE-LIMITED SETTINGS: A RETROSPECTIVE CASE REPORT

Kinzang Chedup, Sangay Letho, Sonam Wangchuk, Sonam Zangpo, Chado — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

ABSTRACT: Cranium bifidum is a congenital defect that develops due to the failure of neural tube closure during fetal development. This results in the development of an osseous defect in the calvaria, through which herniation of meninges and cranial structures occurs. The congenital defect in a four-day-old male Jersey calf suffering from large fluctuating swelling over the parieto-occipital region was reported to Regional Veterinary Hospital & Epidemiology Center, Dewathang from Gomdhar Gewog under Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag. Upon close examination, the calf was recumbent and exhibited rapid abdominal respiration. The swelling was warm, fluctuating, and pedunculated. Preemptively, a fine-needle aspiration was performed and serosanguinous fluid was observed. The fluid inside the swelling was drained and the skin flap produced was then excised completely. The hernial ring-like opening at the base was closed initially with absorbable suture material; PGA Sterile (2-0), followed by in-layers with same suture material and size. The skin was apposed using a horizontal-mattress pattern using silk suture. Then the calf was treated with antibiotic (Injection Cefotaxime) and analgesic (Injection Meloxicam) post-surgery along with daily antiseptic dressing of the surgical wound. The prognosis was grave due to the involvement of neurological structures, which required specialized surgical intervention, and unfortunately, the patient did not recover uneventfully. The condition was diagnosed retrospectively as Cranium Bifidum with Meningocele, and this unique case highlights the diverse range of clinical conditions encountered in the field and underscores the need for in-depth knowledge in diagnosing and managing such condition within resource-limited veterinary settings, such as certain remote places in Bhutan.

EGG PRODUCTION METRICS, PROFITABILITY AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN LAYER FARMING IN SARPANG DISTRICT

Sangay Tshewang, Nedup Dorji, Janga Bdr. Gaylal — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study examines the economic performance and management practices of layer poultry farming in Sarpang District, a region producing 22 million eggs annually. Using data from 30-layer farms, representing 30% of the district's poultry operations, the research analyses feed efficiency, production metrics, and profitability. Egg production averaged 668±394 eggs daily, with a mortality rate of 12.9% no significant relationship was found between stocking size and mortality rates (p = 0.412). The cost of production (CoP) per egg was Nu. 7.85, while the average selling price was Nu. 13.77±1.14, yielding a profit margin of 75.4%. Revenue among farms varied significantly, influenced by factors such as farm size, market access, and management practices, with monthly earnings ranging from Nu. 81,900 to Nu. 720,000. Training of poultry farmers emerged as a critical factor in improving production efficiency, as farmers with formal training reported more consistent outcomes. Despite its profitability, the sector faces challenges, including inadequate management practices and limited access to modern infrastructure. To overcome these, the study recommends targeted investments in farmer training programs, advanced feed technologies, and biosecurity measures. Additionally, promoting larger flock sizes and enhancing access to markets and financial resources are essential to ensuring long-term sustainability and growth.

EFFECT OF MONTHLY CHANGES (MAY – SEPTEMBER) ON LARVAE ACCEPTANCE RATE AND ROYAL JELLY PRODUCTION IN APIS MELLIFERA COLONIES IN BUMTHANG

Prasad Bhujel, Lhaba Dorji, Kabiraj Gurung, Jambay Dorjee, Vijay Raika — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigates the influence of colony status (queenright vs. queenless) and seasonal variations on royal jelly production and larvae acceptance rates in Apis mellifera colonies. The study was conducted at the National Livestock Research Centre (NLRC) apiary in Bumthang, Bhutan, from May 2023 to September 2024. Eight colonies, each with equal adult bee populations and brood percentages, were selected for the study. The colonies were maintained under controlled conditions, with sugar syrup supplementation during the rainy season to ensure uninterrupted nectar flow. Larvae grafting was carried out between May and September each year. Royal jelly produced was harvested and weighed at regular intervals. The results indicated significant seasonal effects (p < 0.05) on both royal jelly production and larvae acceptance rates. Highest production and acceptance were recorded in June, with queenright colonies yielding average royal jelly of 48.0g and 67.9% acceptance rate, while queenless colonies produced an average of 47.0g and had 66.5% acceptance rate. By September, royal jelly production and larvae acceptance rates had declined. Queenright colonies had average production of 16.3g and a 23.0% acceptance rate, while queenless colonies had average production of 16.9g and a 23.9% acceptance rate. The study suggests that royal jelly production is influenced by nectar availability, with peak production occurring when nectar flow is abundant in June. Based on the findings, it is recommended to use faster-developing colonies to improve royal jelly production. A similar study is recommended in different geographical locations (warmer southern districts) to further explore regional variations in royal jelly production.

A REVIEW OF AGRIBUSINESS IN BHUTAN: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES AND PROSPECTS

Janga Bdr. Gaylal, Jambay Dorjee — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The agribusiness sector in Bhutan serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, supporting the livelihoods of over 60% of the population while playing a vital role in ensuring food security and preserving cultural heritage. Despite its importance, the sector faces multifaceted challenges such as limited market access, financial constraints, labour shortages, vulnerability to climate change, and inadequate infrastructure. This review examines the current state of agribusiness in the country, focusing on challenges, opportunities, and prospects for growth. Key opportunities for agribusiness in Bhutan include the promotion of organic farming, tapping into high-value and niche markets for both livestock and crop products, and expanding agro-processing capabilities. Sustainable forestry and non-timber forest products (NTFP) also present huge potential for income diversification in the rural communities. This study emphasizes the need for enhanced infrastructure, financial inclusion, adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices and public-private partnerships (PPP) to drive transformation of the agribusiness sector in the country. By effectively addressing these existing challenges and leveraging the opportunities, Bhutan can achieve sustainable growth, contribute to rural development and align with the principles of Gross National Happiness (GNH) while responding to both national priorities and global demand for sustainable agricultural products.