In developing countries, foetal wastage from slaughtered ruminants and the associated economic losses appear to be substantial. However, only a limited number of studies have comprehensively evaluated these trends. In the current study, secondary (retrospective) and primary data were collected and evaluated to estimate the prevalence of foetal wastage from cattle, sheep and goats slaughtered at an abattoir in Minna, Nigeria, over a 12-year period (January 2001 – December 2012). Time-series modelling revealed substantial differences in the rate of foetal wastage amongst the slaughtered species, with more lambs having been wasted than calves or kids. Seasonal effects seem to influence rates of foetal wastage and certain months in the year appear to be associated with higher odds of foetal wastage. Improved management systems are suggested to reduce the risk of foetal losses.

In contrary to most domestic livestock species, the common donkey (Equus asinus) is widely known as an animal with marked seasonality in reproductive activity. The annual cycle of daily photoperiod has been identified as the determining factor in sexual activity. A synthesis of the particularities of donkey reproduction is important and constitutes a basis of scientific reflection for managing asine livestock farms and establishing a well conservation plan for the different breeds around the world. It is necessary to have a perfect knowledge of the seasonal physiological changes in order to optimize the reproductive characteristics of donkeys. The objective of this paper is to review the current state of knowledge on the reproduction seasonality of common donkeys. We start with a remainder of some anatomical of the genital apparatus and sexual behavior aspects. Moreover, the investigations undertaken by many authors reveal the influence of the season on testicular biometry, histology, seminal and hormonal parameters in male donkeys populations. In conclusion, despite scientific controversy on the reproductive seasonal character in donkeys, it could likely be influenced by several factors mainly the photoperiod.