Evaluation of the Crossbreeding Scheme and Farmers’ Perception of Awassi and Dorper Crossbred Sheep

The objectives of this study were to characterize the performance crossbred sheep and crossbreeding scheme solicit farmers’ opinions about sheep. A total 238 respondents selected from five districts data collected through a personal interview, focus group discussion, measurement animals, field observation. Continuous type analyzed using different procedures SAS, while estimated breeding value (EBV) for distributed rams was by WOMBAT software fitting animal model. findings showed that most significant species they primarily raised meat consumption income generation. proportions 79.6% in Angot, 61.3% Dessie zuria, 64.2% Gazo, 80.6% Legambo, 27.5% Kobo area. program constrained feed shortage, lack improved genotype, diseases. ongoing lacks proper recording scheme, not based on genetic merit, exchanged time, periodic importation genetically unrelated rams, fixing maximum exotic gene level suitable production system. EBVs Dorper birth weight weaning 0.007 kg 0.273 kg, respectively. Tikur had an earlier age at first lambing (AFL) than Awassi x Likewise, indigenous Wollo AFL, short interval, produced large number lambs per lifetime their crossbreds. crossbreds preferred (9.30 - 72.2 times greater P < 0.001 ) growth rate, physical appearance, preference market or price, milk ewes compared with Tumele (odds ratio = 12.7– 90.0 id="M2"> due good fast wool yield, better breeds. implementation needs some sort revision, monitoring, evaluation. Besides, it must be accompanied management exploit expected benefits low-input