Analysis of dynamics and structure of the beef cattle population in Tolangohula Sub-District, Gorontalo District

The objective of this study was to analyze the factors affecting the dynamics and structure of the Bali cattle population and natural increase (NI) in Tolangohula Subdistrict by 2023.The research was conducted in three villages within Tolangohula Subdistrict: Gandasari Village, Margomulya Village, and Ombulo Tango Village. The method employed was a proportionate stratified sampling and survey with descriptive analysis. The study's variables included (1) entry rate, defined as birth rate (natality), purchase rate, and in-migration of livestock, (2) expenditure rate, defined as mortality rate, slaughter rate, sales rate, and out-migration rate of livestock, (3) natural increase value, and (4) composition and structure of Bali cattle population. The results indicated that the birth rate was 17.74%, the purchase rate was 8.37%, the in-migration rate was 0.33%, the mortality rate was 1.45%, the slaughter rate was 0.79%, the sales rate was 8.15%, and the out-migration rate was 0%. The natural increase value was 16.29%. The composition and structure of Bali cattle herds are as follows: adult males 13.73%, adult females 41.85%, young males 12.95%, young females 13.73%, calf males 6.36%, and calf females 25.5%. The composition of livestock for all ages is 33.04% male Bali cattle and 66.96% female Bali cattle. These figures indicate that the Tolangohula Sub-district is a viable location for Bali cattle development in Gorontalo Regency, contingent on the implementation of intervention programs and the enhancement of maintenance management practices by farmers.