Genetic parameters and factors affecting reproductive performance in White Fulani cattle in Southern Nigeria.

Data on reproductive performance of the White Fulani (Bunaji) cattle in Southern Nigeria were analysed. Age at first calving, first and overall calving intervals averaged 4.03 +/- 0.43 years, 436.19 +/- 9.32 and 420.98 +/- 4.11 days respectively. The year of birth significantly affected age at first calving and calving interval (P less than 0.01) but the season of birth had significant effect only on calving interval (P less than 0.05). In addition the age of the dam also affected the calving interval (P less than 0.05) but the sex of the calf nursed had no effect. Heritability estimates from half-sib analysis were 0.01 +/- 0.03, 0.26 +/- 0.10 and 0.28 +/- 0.08 respectively for age at first calving, first and overall calving intervals. Low repeatability estimates were obtained for calving intervals.