CONSERVATION EFFORTS FOR ENDANGERED INDIGENOUS CATTLE IN NEPAL

Livestock in Nepal is a way of life with only a fraction of the population living without associating with them. Nepal is blessed with a huge bio-diverse nature that in itself is a potential center-stage for research initiatives. Lots of information pertaining to its biodiversity is yet to be revealed. Indigenous knowledge and flora, fauna are some to name. The indigenous Achhami cattle that are found in the Western hills of Nepal are one such unique animal species that unless intervened with conservation effort will be lost forever. Exploratory survey pertaining to disease, management and breeding status of Achhami cattle was done. Hematological values for Achhami cattle were established and karyotyping was done. This work, though little have no doubt added an efforts and scientific information vital for conservation efforts, and the timing is now as the world focus on the importance of indigenous biodiversity conservation.