engleski

Potential of domestic equine for milk production in Croatia

The aim of this paper was to show the potential of domestic equine population in Croatia for production of milk of mares and donkeys. In Croatia, in year 2017, total of 26.482 equine animals were registered. 12% (3.252) of all equine were donkeys. Coldblooded breeds of horses were the most numerous among horses population in Croatia with 58% (13.418), while warm-blooded breeds represents 37% (8.604), and finally ponies 5% (1.187) of total horses population. In the last decade, the number of warm-blooded horses under selection increased for 44% (6.033 individuals), cold-blooded horses for 43% (5.229 individuals) and donkeys for 42% (1.766 individuals). From the total horses’ population in year 2017, 7.253 animals were breeding mares (56% cold-blooded and 44% warm-blooded breeds). Furthermore, in year 2017, 32% of the total number of equine population in Croatia could be introduced to milk production. Potential for milk production depends on species (mares or donkeys), and genetic potential of breed (cold or warm blooded). In accordance to the literature, warm-blooded mares in 8 months of lactation could produce between 1500-2500 kg of milk, while cold-blooded breeds have 13% higher potential for milk production. In accordance to the literature, donkeys could produce 1000-2400 kg of milk during lactation. Considering the number of animals that could be introduced to milk production and production potential of equine animals, production of 11.116.700 kg of mares’ milk and 747.000 kg of donkeys’ milk could be projected. Highest amount in total equine milk production is expected from coldblooded mares (65%). The economic income from production of donkeys’ milk could be 40.000 euros per lactation. Furthermore, the economic income from milking of coldblooded mares could amount 48.000 euros per lactation (and 200 euros per foal). Lower income from milk production of warm-blooded mares would be compensated by higher prices of foals. Based on this analysis it could be concluded that production of mares and donkeys milk could have significant effect on economic feasibility of equine breeding in Croatia.

equine breeding ; mare's milk ; donkey’s milk ; Croatia

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