Threatened breed of Kendrapara sheep in Odisha.

The National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) has conferred rare and singular species genetic recognition tag to thethreatened breed of Kendrapara sheep found in Odisha.

•    It became the 42nd sheep breed in India to receive such tag. The genetically rare status will help to boost conservation effort to protect these domesticated threatened sheep. 
•    Previously, two buffalo and four cattle breeds’ native to Odisha were registered at national level by NBAGR. 
•    Kendrapara sheep is found only in coastal Jagatsinghpur and Kendrapara districts of Odisha. 
•    Locally it is called kuji mendha. The average adult sheep weighs 18-20 kg and are dwarf in built with the body covered with coarse hair. 
•    They are well adapted to high ambient temperature, high humidity and heavy rain. 
•    Multiple-birth characteristics make it a profitable livelihood source. 
•    They are primarily used for mutton production. Besides, their skin also has economic importance. National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources is dedicated to work with its mandate of identification, characterization, evaluation, conservation and utilization of livestock and poultry genetic resources of the country.