Bometrics and breed characteristics of Madras red sheep Raman K. S., Sundararaman M.N., Haribhaskar S., Ganesakale D. Madras Veterinary College, Vepery, Chennai-600 007 Abstract The habitat and distribution of Madras Red sheep were studied by the survey in Northern districts of Tamil Nadu. Data on physical traits and body weights were recorded in Madras Red sheep of varied age groups in both the sexes from farmer's flocks. The study revealed that the breed was distributed in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvellore, Villupuram and adjoining areas of Villupuram, Vellore and Cuddalore and Thiruvannamalai districts of Tamil Nadu and some of the areas from Chennai to Nellore. They were medium sized, well built, hairy type of sheep. The colour generally varied from light dark red/brown/fan. The pooled mean body weights of lambs at birth, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age were 2.60±0.02, 11.50±0.12, 15.82±0.18, 18.92±0.34 and 22.95±0.60 kg, respectively. In adults, the body weights of males and females were 35.20±0.32, 23.12±0.14 kg, respectively while the dressing percentage was 49%. Top Key words Breed characteristics, Madras Red, Sheep. Top |