Past, present and future of the Tsigai sheep. Win or lose?

Abstract

This overview highlights the significance of conserving the Tsigai sheep, an old native transboundary breed, and emphasizes the importance of conducting a longitudinal assessment of its population status. The analysis of the FAO statistical database and the national sheep yearbooks over a 15-year period reveals fluctuations in the population size of Tsigai sheep in the Republic of Serbia. Several factors, including bio-geographic, agro-economic, sociocultural and others, have influenced Tsigai sheep management. The observed population dynamics show a low point in 2009 with 1788 evidenced individuals, followed by a fluctuating increase, reaching its peak in 2023 with 5865 evidenced individuals in Serbia. It's noted that the breed has an endangered status if the total population size falls below 10,000 breeding ewes according to national and international regulations. Although the population has stabilized in recent years, this breed in the Republic of Serbia is still categorized as endangered and vulnerable. Challenges to the population include uncontrolled crossbreeding with more productive breeds like Ille de France, Würtemberg and Suffolk. Economic and demographic reasons, contributing to this with erosion of the population, being a significant concern. Despite economic factors, the importance of conserving Tsigai sheep is underscored by cultural, historical and heritage considerations. Long-term supportive measures are deemed essential not only for economic reasons but primarily to ensure the survival of the breed, reflecting its cultural, historical and heritage value