Proceedings

An analysis was made of the duration of survival of kids that eventually died within 360 days of their birth in the tropical North-East Brazil. These kids belonged to three groups: indigenous (Moxoto, Marota, Carinde, Repartida), exotic (Bhuj, Anglo Nubian) and SRD (Sem Raca Definida or nondescript). The results showed that the size of kid at birth was most important and that these was significant difference between breed groups in the duration of survival. Type of birth alone had no effect and therefore if the weight of the kid was as good as those of single born kids, the twins may survive equally well. Maximum mortality (37 percent of total) occurred within the first five days of birth and tended to increase again around 90 days. The results suggest that the single most important factor influencing survival may be the condition of the mother at the time of parturition, which may be improved either by supplementary feeding or by shifting the breeding season in such a way that the kids are born when the mothers are generally in good condition