Evaluation of Small Livestock Farms in Çorum Province in terms of Structural Characteristics, Herd Management Practices, Biosecurity and Animal Welfare
Abstract
This study was conducted to examine the structural characteristics, biosecurity, and animal welfare practices of 120 small ruminant farms in Çorum province. The study included face-to-face surveys, observations, and measurements on farms with at least 50 animals, where a total of 17 different parameters were considered: 7 related to shelters, 7 related to building and equipment conditions, and 3 related to animal health. The majority of participating farm owners were young and middle-aged men who rely on livestock farming as their primary source of income (69%). The sector shows growth potential, demonstrated by the fact that 65% of farmers reported an increase in flock size over the last five years. However, a significant deficiency in modern herd management was identified, as 70% of farms do not use formal record-keeping systems. In terms of biosecurity, although 90.83% of breeders follow a regular vaccination schedule, crucial preventive measures like physical area disinfection and manure removal are performed infrequently, often only once a year. Lack of knowledge about biosecurity and excessive costs were reported as the main obstacles to effective implementation. The welfare assessment, based on the ANI 35L-derived protocol, rated the farms' housing and equipment status as "medium", with critical deficiencies noted in insulation and facilities for heat and cold protection (77.5% lack insulation). However, animal health parameters were generally rated as "moderate", with only skin condition being scored as "good". In conclusion, small ruminant farms in Çorum exhibit growth potential but urgently require improvements in key areas such as record-keeping, biosecurity measures, and modern barn infrastructure to enhance animal welfare and productivity.
Keywords
Animal welfare, Biosecurity, Çorum, Farm, Small animals
Supporting Institution
TÜBİTAK
Project Number
1919B012332961
Ethical Statement
The study was conducted after obtaining approval from the Hitit University Non-Interventional Research Ethics Committee (Decision no: 2025/11; Decision date: 27/05/2025).
Thanks
This study was supported by the Scientist Support Programs Directorate (BİDEB) of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK), under the 2209-A University Student Research Projects Support Program (Project No: 1919B012332961). We extend our gratitude to TÜBİTAK for its support.
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