ABSTRACT.

The incidence and pattern of mortality was examined among the poultry and livestock species on the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture farm over varying periods in broilers, layers, pigs, goats, sheep, and cattle. The farm records were thoroughly examined. The methods of management for the species included semi-intensive management for cattle, while the goats, sheep, pigs and poultry are intensively managed. The total stock reared was 20,367 broilers, 6,062 layers, 288 sheep, 249 goats, 70 cattle and 388 pigs. It was observed that the older ones, 62.1% of broilers and 21.8% of layers died in the brooding stage. In sheep, 25% of the lambs and 4.2% of adults died, the average age of dead lambs being 2.3 months. In goat, 25.1% of kids and 6.1% of adults died, the average age of dead kids being 2.8 months. In cattle, 4.3% of the animals less than one year old  (calves) and 2.8% of animals more than one year old died, while in pigs, 15.5% piglets (0 — 8 week old), 7.0% growers (3 —6 months old) and 0.7% adult pigs (above 1 year old) died. More laying birds died during the dry season, while more broilers died during the wet season. In goats, sheep, cattle and pigs, mortality was also observed more in the wet season that in the dry season. In goat, sheep and cattle, more female animals died compared to males. The causes of mortality were found in some cases and recommendations made as to how mortality could be reduced and production enhanced on the university livestock and poultry farms.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Title page.

Certification.

Dedication.

Acknowledgement.

Table of Contents.

Abstract.

CHAPTER ONE.

Introduction.

Statement of Problem.

Justification.

Objective of Research.

CHAPTER TWO.

Literature Review.

Factors Causing Mortality in Farm Animals.

Mortality Rate in Livestock and Poultry.

CHAPTER THREE.

Materials and Methods.

Site of Study.

Species of Animals Studied.

Methods of Management.

Data Collection.

Analysis of Data.

CHAPTER FOUR.

Results.

Discussion.

Recommendation.

Conclusion.

References.