Abstract:
The goat farming system in Sri Lanka is a developing industry. The study was
conducted as field survey at Gampola area in Kandy district to identify the goat production
system and the problems faced by the farmers through random sample of 96 goat farmers
were interviewed using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Feeding practices found to be
more traditional while animals were mainly fed with jack leaves (Artocarpus heterophyllus) by
all the farmers while famers did not depend on one feed. The majorities of goats reared in this
area were Jamnapari (24%), Saanen (19%. The average mature weights of an animal are
approximately 30 Kg. The average kidding interval was 9 months it may differ with breeds.
Waste management was important to maintain the hygienic condition of the farm, many
farmers used waste as organic fertilizer (41%), some were giving others without money (20%)
and no proper methods were followed by some famers. Paralysis (32%) was the most serious
disease condition while bloating and other diseases were occurred. Kid mortality (65-75% out
of total death) became a serious threat which was mainly due lack nourishment for kids during
early growth (63%), susceptibility to contagious diseases. Selling of live animal in the basis of
eye estimation the present market prices of weight per Kilo gram vary from 900-1100 Rupees.
The major limitation of marketing was transport (permit) and religious problems. Lack of
extension services for goat production and very poor regional veterinary services were
discussed. Gampola area has potential to goat production. Recommendations to improve the
sector government should involve solving transport problem and organizing other necessary
services to goat famers.
