ABSTRACT
The small animal species have many advantages over large animals for small-farm rearing. Large animals are usually selective consumers of forage whereas small animals can be raised on feeds, forages, and kitchen refuse that would otherwise be wasted. The space required for handling and feeding small animals is much less than that required for larger animals. The relatively small size/low purchase price of small animals makes them more available to low-income households that have neither space nor capital for a large animal. The productivity of small animals can be similar to that of larger animals if compared on an animal unit basis. Few countries give a high priority status to animal development on small farms. Consequently, the FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean has initiated an activity entitled, "Small Animals for Small Farms." There are many different breeds of hair sheep adapted to tropical conditions.
