Camel production in Kenya and its constraints. I. Productivity.

Abstract

Body measurements and data on reproduction and mortality were recorded in 4 herds of camels (Camelus dromedarius) in different areas of Kenya (21-175 animals per herd). Regressions of body weight (estimated from body measurements) on age are given for ♂♂ and ♀♀ in the 3 largest herds, separately for calves, other immature animals and adults. In the 3 herds, calving rate was 42.0, 54.0 and 57.4%, calving interval 28.4, 22.2 and 20.9 months, abortion rate 13.5, 0 and 0%, and preweaning mortality 55.0, 0 and 6.2%. Data are tabulated on the age structure of the 3 herds.