Reproductive performance of the one-humped camel under traditional management in the United Arab Emirates

Reproductive performance of camels in two herds in Ras Al-Khaimah Emirate, United Arab Emirates, was assessed by analysis of records gathered over 5 years. Ages at first mating and first calving were 43•1 and 55•3 months. Days open was lower in one herd (319 and 352 days) possibly due to earlier weaning of calves, this being reflected in shorter calving intervals (22•9 and 26•6 months). There were 1•63 services per conception, most matings taking place in October-January. Some calving (8•7%) in April-May indicates the possibility of extending the breeding season under field conditions. Advanced ages at first calving, long calving intervals and seasonal breeding are the main reasons for poor reproductive performance in traditional camel herds in the United Arab Emirates.