Vol. 9, Issue 3, Part C (2024)

Author(s): Selvaramesh AS and Narmatha N

Abstract: Field investigation was conducted to compare the lactation performance of Pulikulam cattle in its native breeding tracts viz., Sivagangai and Madurai districts of Tamil Nadu. It is the recognised cattle breed reared as migratory herds by nomadic pastoralists for livelihood security. Milking is not practised in herd and calf is allowed to suckle the milk. From 100 numbers of pulikulam cows 280 Milk recordings done. The observed daily minimum and maximum partial milk yield was 0.412 kg and 2.884 kg. Average partial daily milk yield was 1.583±0.23 kg. Total partial milk yield ranges from 296.6 kg to 389.80 kg. Pulikulam cows fed with concentrates in Sivagangai districts given more milk than reared in herds in Madurai districts. There is a scope for genetic make use of increasing the milk yield in pulikulam cattle. Indigenous cattle milk fetches more money than cross bred cattle in turn it may enhance better livelihood security to the pastoralists.