Effect of Seasonal Changes on Skin\Leather Quality of Sudan Desert Sheep

This study was achieved to assess the effect of the seasonal changes on the Sudan Desert sheep skin\leather quality. Five Sudan desert sheep breeds were chosen for the study purpose. 150 pieces of fresh skins; non-castrated male desert sheep on an average age 1- 1.2 years; were taken as samples for the study analysis. Thirty (30) pieces of skins (10 at winter, 10 at summer and 10 at autumn) were selected for each breed. RCBD (Randomize Complete Block Design) was used for data analysis. The study concluded that, physical properties and chemical characteristics of Sudan desert sheep leather were significantly affected (p≥0.05) by the seasonal changes. Generally, high quality values were recorded at winter season for all leather quality parameters. While fat and moisture contents high values were observed at autumn season and elongation or elasticity high values were obtained at summer season.