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 live-weight 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).