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ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of weight of rabbit does at first mating on the performance of offspring. The research was carried out at the Rabbit experimental unit of the University of Benin farm Project Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A total of twenty mixed breed of rabbits were used for the study. The breeds consist of 16 does of New Zealand, chinchilla, Hyla and Dutch; one buck of each breed. Data were collected include litter size, doe weight at first mating, litter weight at birth and litter weight at weaning. The results unequivocally demonstrate that rabbit weight significantly influences both litter size at birth and weaning. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 0.05% level of significance SPSS package to determine if any significant (p< 0.05) differences existed between means of individuals treatment (breed) groups. Duncan's new Multiple Range Test was then used to separate the means where the means were significant (p<0.05) differences were recorded. Rabbits within the 2100–2500 g weight range consistently exhibited the highest litter sizes at birth (5.27±0.33b) and litter weight at birth (58.09±1.84b), emphasizing their superior reproductive potential. This insight is invaluable for breeders and researchers, providing a clear direction for optimizing breeding programs. The study’s implications extend beyond mere statistical correlations. The observed patterns underline the importance of holistic rabbit care, emphasizing factors such as nutrition, genetic selection, and overall health. The results strongly advocate for targeted breeding strategies, suggesting that focusing on rabbits within the 2100–2500 g weight category can enhance reproductive efficiency and overall productivity in rabbit farming operations. Based on the findings, it is therefore recommended that to enhance rabbit breeding practices: Breeder should implement a selective breeding program that focuses on rabbits within the 2100–2500 g weight range. By selectively mating rabbits within this weight category, breeders can potentially enhance the genetic traits associated with larger litter sizes at birth and weaning. This targeted approach can accelerate the production of rabbits with superior reproductive efficiency, ensuring the consistent generation of larger and healthier litters.
