Several studies have shown that live-weight
has a direct relationship with linear body
measurements. Condition score, in part, reflects the
level of fats deposition in soft tissues, thereby
depicting the performance of growth related traits.
(Lawrence and Fowler, 1997; Nicholson and
Sayers, 1987 a; 1987b)
Researchers have therefore exploited these
correlations to develop techniques for estimating
live-weight from the body measurements or
condition scores where weighing machines may
not be available.
El- Khidir (1977) was able to estimate live
weight of Butana heifers from heart girth and body
height. Bushara et al (2011) in Taggar goats in
southern Kordofan state.
Nicholson and Sayers (1987b) used both heart
girth and condition scores in Boran cattle in
Ethiopia. While ILACO (1982) estimated liveweight
from heart girth, in Dinka, Nuer and Murle
cattle. But no attempt was made to quantify these
measurements in terms of gain or loss in body
weight. The purpose of this paper is to standardize
the relationship with which body weight can be
predicted from heart girth, body length and
condition scores in Nilotic cattle of southern upper
Nile. The origin, description and distribution of
these cattle should be referred to El-Mahi (1979)
and Payne (1977).