Seasonal Variation In Forage Availability And Grazing Behavior Of Cattle In Selected Peri-Urban Areas In The Northern Region Of Ghana

ABSTRACT

A research involving six cattle herds was carried out to determine the effect of season: intermediate, peak rains and dry seasons, on  characteristics of grazing lands and grazing behaviour within peri-urban areas of three selected districts, namely: Tamale Metropolis, Savelugu Municipality and Sagnarigu District in the Northen Region of Ghana. The effect of management style, that is, Fulani and Non –Fulani management styles on grazing behaviour of cattle was also investigated. Two herds each were selected from Tamale Metro, Savelugu Municipal and Sagnarigu District for study. A total of 18 cows constituting 3 per farm were selected for the behavioural studies. Grazing lands were selected based on interaction with farmers, and also, by direct observation, while biomass sampling area was selected within the main grazing zone of the pasture. The parameters measured within grazing fields were plant species, vegetation cover, status of pasture, plant height, nature of grazing fields, biomass estimates and carrying capacity. Behavioural parameters studied were proportions of total grazing time used for feeding, walking, resting, watering and social interaction. Grass (72.8%) was the dominant species group of plant in all three seasons. A greater proportion (P