The present study was conducted with an aim to determine the morphometric, characteristics of Rathi calves of 4-6 months in its breeding tract i.e. Bikaner, Sri Ganganagar and Hanumangarh district. A total number of 180 Rathi calves were taken for observations in 6 tehsils of 3 districts belonging to the breeding tract irrespective of sex. Upon comparison of means, highly significant effect of sex on body weight and ear length was observed whereas remaining parameters did not vary significantly. Among districts, only body weight, body length and height at hip bone differ significantly. The body weight of Rathi calves at 4-6 months of age in Sri Ganganagar district were observed to be significantly higher as compared to Bikaner and Hanumangarh district. Rathi calves did not reveal significant variation among each other. Similarly, body length and height at hip bone of Rath calves at 4-6 months of age also varied significant in which Sri Ganganagar district had highr values as compared to other two districts exhibited comparable values. The results of this survey study determined better characterization of Rathi breed in its home tract which might be useful to establish its current status in arid zone of Rajasthan to plan strategy for conservation of Rathi cattle for supporting dairy husbandry activity in its breeding tract. 

Highlights

• Rathi cattle had better characterization in its home tract.
• The height at wither, chest girth and body length of Rathi calves were positive and significantly correlated with body weight