Observation

Question 5 (a) was least popular among candidates because they avoided it. Candidates who attempted the question were unable to give reasons for culling and creep feeding in animal husbandry as well as describe the process of castrating a lamb using the burdizzo.

The expected answers include:
 (a)       Reasons for carrying out animal husbandry practices

                        (i)         Culling of poultry
To:
-           remove unproductive birds from the flock
-           remove diseased birds from the flock
-           remove aggressive or cannibalistic birds from the flock
-           remove pest infested birds from the flock
-           increase space available for productive birds
-           make feed and water available for productive birds
-           reduce cost of production                                                                                   

                        (ii)       Creep feeding of pigs
To:
-           prepare piglets for weaning
-           avoid overlay of the piglets by the sow
-           keep feed meant for the piglets out of the reach of the sows
-           provide highly nutritious diet to the piglets for their rapid development
-           initiate and promote gut and enzymes development in piglets

(b)       Process of castrating a lamb using the burdizzo 
-           Wash hands with warm water / wear hand gloves
-           Restrain the animal
-           Locate the spermatic cord
-           Work the spermatic cord and blood vessels to one side
-           Clamp using the burdizzo at a point above the testes
-           Apply force /crush with both hands for a few seconds
-           Repeat the clamping 1-2 cm above the first point     
-           Disinfect the impressions made with the burdizzo/disinfect the points
of clamping
                                                                                                                             
(c)        Precautions to be taken when using a herbicide
-           Do not eat or drink when using herbicides
-           Herbicides should be kept away from food and sleeping rooms                    
-           Wear protective clothing/covering such as hand gloves, overall, rubber boots
-           Avoid contact with the body during mixing of herbicides
-           Ensure to back the wind direction when spraying to avoid spraying oneself
-           Spray herbicides on weeds not crops
-           Wash body with soap as well as spraying equipment after use
-           Contact a medical doctor when feeling uneasy due to the use of herbicides
-            Read manufacturer’s instruction before use                                                                                                                                                                
(d)       Explanation of agricultural extension methods

            (i)         Demonstration
-   A group method of teaching farmers how to carry out a new technique
in the field
-   Used to show the superiority of a hybrid/improved variety over a local
variety, the hybrid being planted alongside the traditional one so as to show
a direct comparison

• Provides opportunity for imitation of practical application of knowledge / skill

                                                                                                                       
(ii)        Agricultural shows
-           Farmers are invited to display their produce and compete with other
farmers for prizes during the show
-           The show provides learning and rewards for farmers
-           Agro-based industries, agricultural research institutes and government
usually participate in the show, thus enabling the farmer to make new
contacts and learn about new developments