author(s)
T Ravimurugan, T Nisha Prabha and P Pavithra

abstract
Kilakarsal sheep are found in the Tirunelveli districts of Tamil Nadu. A survey was carried out to collect information on breed characteristics, distribution areas, population status, disease prevalence, and production and reproduction performances of Kilakarsal. Animals of this breed have dark tan coat dorsally with black colouration in the ventral region especially in the under belly and inner side of legs. A black colour is also noticed above the eyelids on either side and along the lower jaw. The sheep is predominantly distributed in Manur Panchayat Union areas in Tirunelveli taluk, Palayamkottai Panchayat Union areas in Palayamkottai taluk of Tirunelveli district. The overall birth weight, 3-month, 6-month, 9-month and 12-month body weight were 2.72±0.06, 9.47±0.31, 12.56±0.32, 14.39±0.36 and19.90±0.51kg, respectively in nucleus flocks. The age at first mating for male was 628.06 ± 15.81 days. On an average, the females were found to conceive 8.17 ± 0.06 times in their life span. Survey found that number of sheep has been decreased to <1000 and few breeding rams are available in the farmers’ field. Sustained efforts are needed for providing incentives and quality breeding rams to the farmers. This will create farmers’ interest in rearing this breed and ensure ex situ conservation.