Vol. 10, Issue 7, Part B (2025)

Author(s): S Ganesh Kumar, N Kumaravelu, Thanga Thamil Vanan, TR Pugazhenthi, T Ravimurugan and Chhavi Gupta

Abstract: This study was performed in 222 no. of White and 205 no. of Grey Donkeys at Southern agro-climatic zone to assess their adaptability on the basis of behavioural and welfare score. The mean (±SE) behaviour score revealed percentage alertness in Gery donkey was higher than White donkey. The percentage of depressed behaviour in Grey donkey was lesser than white donkey. However, Grey donkeys were less friendly and more aggressive with more acceptance of chin contact than White. Further, present study revealed that the Firing lesions, Nose split and Lameness were higher in Grey donkey than White donkey; however, Ear split and Branding mutilation were higher in White donkey than Grey donkey. Similarly, the body condition score of one was numerically higher in Grey donkey than White donkey. However, body condition score of 1 and 2 numerically higher in White donkey than Grey donkey. The total welfare score based on behaviour, health, body condition, body coat, lesion and hoof score in White donkey and Grey donkey was 65.96±0.94 and 67.34±1.03 which was non-significantly higher in Grey donkey than White donkey. Hence, the present study concluded the White and Grey donkeys are well adapted in southern districts of Tamil Nadu.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2025.v10.i7b.2381