Phenotypic characterization and description of production systems of autochthonous sheep breeds in Kosovo

Considering about 13.9 percent of total surface under pastures and meadows and big demand for milk and meat, sheep are considered as an important livestock species in Kosovo. Hence, the overall objective of this study was to provide the characterization of autochthonous sheep breeds and sheep production systems in Kosovo. Breed characterization and proper economic management schemes, selection for most economically important traits and best animals in the flock will assist farmers in increasing the feeding efficiency, reproduction and productive traits and thus profit. Including Bardhoka (BAR), Balusha (BAL), Sharri (SHA) and Kosva (KOS) sheep breeds, for a period of 1 year (September 2009–August 2010) the study was concentrated in 20 sheep farms in different regions of Kosovo. The least-squares means show that for milk yield and milk content, breed differences were significant (P