Macherla Breed Sheep

Macherla Sheep: Distinctive Genetics for High-Yield Meat Production

At Surya LiveStocks, we proudly recognise the Macherla sheep as a genetically distinct and economically valuable meat breed native to Southern India. With its unique coat pattern, strong growth rates, and resilience under extensive systems, Macherla sheep offer scalable potential for ethical and profitable sheep farming.

πŸ“ Geographic Origin and Distribution
Named after Macherla town in Palnadu district, Andhra Pradesh, this breed is primarily found in:

  • Guntur, Krishna, and Prakasam districts of Andhra Pradesh.
  • Nalgonda district of Telangana

Locally referred to as Gukkala Jala or Guntur Local, the breed thrives in dryland zones along the Krishna River basin, where rainfall averages ~830 mm annually.

🐏 Breed Characteristics

  • Coat: White base with large, irregular black or brown patches across face, legs, and torso.
  • Face: Convex nasal bridge with black muzzle.
  • Ears: Leafy, semi-drooping.
  • Horns:  Males: Long, curved (avg. 38.47 cm; range 16–63 cm), Females: Usually polled, occasionally small horns.
  • Tail: Small and slender; docking is common to enhance growth rates

This patchy coloration gives each animal a unique appearance, aiding breed identification and branding.

πŸ“ˆ Growth and Performance

  • Adult Rams: 38–69 kg (avg. 55.76 kg).
  • Adult Ewes: 25–60 kg (avg. 43.59 kg).
  • Lamb Growth: Suitable for mutton production under extensive systems

Macherla sheep show low mortality (~4%), high lambing rates, and efficient reproduction, making them ideal for smallholder and cooperative models.

🧬 Genetic Registration and Identity

  • Officially registered by ICAR-NBAGR under accession number INDIA_SHEEP_0100_MACHERLA_14045.
  • Recognized as one of India’s 45 registered sheep breeds.
  • Phenotypically distinct from other Nellore strains.
  • Surveyed and characterised by NTR College of Veterinary Sciences and NBAGR Karnal

This registration ensures conservation priority and supports breed-specific research and promotion.

πŸ›‘οΈ Management and Welfare : At Surya LiveStocks, we rear Macherla sheep under structured protocols:

  • Feed Regimen: Tile Greens TMR, Corn Silage, Concentrate Feed with mineral mix, toxin binder, jaggery, salt, and sunnam.
  • Housing: Shed-based with airflow optimization; part of our expansion from 250 to 550 capacity.
  • Health: Annual vaccination, hoof care, and clean water access

Their adaptability to minimal-input systems makes them ideal for extensive grazing and semi-intensive rearing.

πŸ’° Economic and Operational Value.

  • High market demand in regional mandis due to unique appearance and meat texture.
  • Efficient reproduction and early market readiness.
  • Low-input viability for landless laborers and marginal farmers

Their distinct coat also supports breed branding, especially in digital outreach and educational materials.

πŸ“’ Surya LiveStocks Commitment : We promote Macherla sheep through:

  • Breed-specific articles and Telugu guides.
  • Infrastructure schematics (e.g., water sumps, feed bins).
  • Supplier-ready feed labels and mixing charts

Our goal is to empower farmers with precision genetics, ethical rearing, and regional pride.

 

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