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Performance Evaluation of Boer × Central Highland Crossbred Bucks and Farmers’ Perceptions on Crossbred Goats in Northeastern Ethiopia

The study aimed to characterize the production system, to evaluate the genetic merit of Boer × Central Highland crossbred bucks, and to solicit the perception of farmers about crossbred goats and crossbreeding program. Data were collected through a personal interview, focus group discussion, field observation, and measurement of the live animal. Besides, data on growth performance were extracted from available performance records at Sirinka sheep and goats breeding station. Data were analyzed using SAS, and the breeding values for bucks were estimated using WOMBAT software. Goats were the second most important animal species, and income generation, home meat consumption, and saving were found to be the main reasons for keeping goats with index values of 0.484, 0.355, and 0.085, respectively. The production system was characterized as a low-input production system. Feed shortage and disease/poor veterinary service were the most important constraints for the goat crossbreeding program. The overall mean estimated breeding values (EBV) for three- and six-month weight of disseminated crossbred bucks were 0.53 and 0.31 kg, respectively. The three-month weight EBV for crossbred goats disseminated in Amhara Sayint and Habru district was lower than their contemporary group. Likewise, the six-month weight EBV for crossbred goats distributed in Amhara Sayint was lower than the contemporary group mean. These results depict the absence of buck selection based on their genetic merit. As per farmers’ perception, crossbred goats were superior (odds ratio = 3.94 to 20.9, 
 
 P
 <
 0.001
 
 ) to indigenous goats in terms of production traits. Besides, the price of the crossbred goat was higher (213 to 372 ETB/head) than indigenous goats with similar management and age. However, poor adaptability and fitness were the major demerits of Boer × Central Highland crossbred goats under a smallholder management system. Therefore, while introducing exotic breeds, it is imperative to give due attention to nutrition and veterinary service.