Teressa goat - First goat breed registered from A&N Islands

Teressa goat is the first indigenous goat breed from Andaman & Nicobar Islands to be registered at ICAR-NBAGR, Karnal. In Nicobari language it is known as Pookore which means goat. Due to their origin and distribution in Teressa Islands and other islands of Nicobar it is popularly known as Teressa goat. Native breeding tract is mainly found in the Nicobar group of islands viz. Teressa Island, Car Nicobar, Katchal, Nancowrie etc. However, sparse population is also available at Little Andaman and Andaman Islands also. They are generally tall, sturdy, brownish or dark tan or black or white in colour with white and black patches. There is black hairs on dorsal midline which goes up to the tail. Peculiar white patch/line starting from inner canthus of both eyes or from eye brows and extending up to nostrils or mouth. Colour of the muzzle, eyelids and hoofs are black. Height ranges from 24 to 27 inches. Head length of male and female is 8.86±0.10 and 7.5±0.27 inches respectively. Tail is medium to long. Horn is large with flat at its base. Ears are erected and directing towards downwards. Age at sexual maturity is about 8-9 months. Body weight at 12 months varies from 20-25 kg, weight at 2 years varies from 35-40 kg, and at 4 years varied from 50-65 kg. Average milk yield may go up to 1 litre/day. Twinning is common and it is more than 53%. The present population of this breed is less than 9000 which needs attention for conservation and further propagation in the native breeding tract.

Benefit:This breed is highly suitable and adaptable to the islands climatic conditions.

Source : Contact person with Name, Designation e-mail and phone no: Dr Jai Sunder, Pr Scientist, ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair, 9434281840, jai.sunder@icar.gov.in