Economic Analysis of Grass Cutter Raised In Captivity in Osun and Oyo ‎State, Nigeria

Abstract

Grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus) are domesticated for meat, income generation, and ‎other conservational purposes. This study focused on the socio economic characteristics of ‎grasscutters raised in captivity and the profitability of its farming in Osun and Oyo state. Data ‎were collected through direct observation of the farms and the use of structured questionnaire. ‎Three (3) grass cutter farms each were randomly selected in Osun and Oyo state. Data was ‎analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The results shows that majority (74.7%) of the ‎respondents were male and married (66.7%). Ages 31-40 were more involved in the business ‎and religion is not a barrier in raising the animal. Grass cutter farming proved to be a profitable ‎business venture in both states; Oyo state NFI (NET FARM INCOME) = TR-TC which is ‎‎10,291,400 - 2,948,600 = 7,342,800, While in Osun state NFI=TR-TC = 23,205,500-3,264,500. ‎However, low level of veterinary care, high rate of disease infection and marketing of the ‎animals are the major constraint affecting grass cutter business in the study area. The study ‎therefore concluded that grass cutter rearing is a profitable business and recommends that ‎researchers should work more on the diseases affecting the grass cutter and the government ‎should create training programmes for interested grass cutter farmers.‎