Breeding performance of local population of female rabbits raised in Tiaret area (semi-arid climate)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the seasonal influence on the reproductive performances of local rabbits raised in semi-arid climate under natural conditions in western Algeria. Eightysix multiparous does were studied from 2017-2018. The mating was natural with a semiintensive rhythm of reproduction. Rabbits were weaned at day 30, non-receptive females at month 1, and those with three infertile mating were excluded from the study. In our work, receptivity and fertility rates were respectively 35% and 76%. The prolificacy was about 7,4 for total born 5,7 born alive and 1,6 stillborn. At weaning, the mean number of weaned rabbits was 4,8 and the average weight of the rabbits was about 516 g. The season significantly affected receptivity (p<0,05), the number of stillborn and the average weight of the rabbits at weaning. Receptivity rate was lowest in summer and autumn with 31% and 23%, respectively. Breeding in does has to be conducted in spring and early autumn to have an economic profitability.