Conservation Status and Production Characteristics of Indigenous Sheep Breeds in Kosova: Implications for Genetic Resource Conservation

This study evaluated the conservation status, phenotypic, morphometric, productive, reproductive, and demographic performances of four indigenous sheep breeds in Kosova-Balusha (BAL), Kosova (KOS), Bardhoka (BAR), and Sharri (SHA) -following FAO guidelines. Data were collected in 2025 through a cross-sectional survey across 20 farms. The results revealed significant breed-related variations. SHA sheep exhibited the highest reproductive efficiency, with 92–96% fertility and 90–95% lamb survival rates, demonstrating strong adaptation to mountainous systems. BAR sheep produced the highest milk yield (138.4 ± 6.4kg/lactation) under lowland semi-intensive conditions. BAL sheep showed moderate performance and good adaptation to extensive mountain grazing. In contrast, KOS sheep displayed the lowest morphometric values, milk production (84.2 ± 4.9kg/lactation), fertility (82–88%), and lamb survival, indicating high vulnerability. Population risk assessments classified SHA and BAR as ”not at risk”, while BAL was” endangered” and KOS was ”critically endangered”. These findings underscore high regional genetic variability and highlight the urgent need for targeted in situ and ex situ conservation programs, particularly for the BAL and KOS breeds.