Abstract
Extensive cattle production in semi-arid environments is strongly influenced by seasonal variation in rainfall and forage resources. This study characterized seasonal patterns in productive and reproductive indicators of indigenous Sanga cattle managed under an extensive transhumant system in Cunene Province, Angola. Fifty cattle (25 fattening males and 25 cows) were monitored from November 2022 to October 2023. Body weight was estimated at 15-day intervals from heart-girth measurements, body condition was assessed monthly, and milk production was measured twice weekly in lactating cows. During the rainy season, estimated body weight increased by 89.02 and 89.90 kg in males and females, respectively, whereas dry-season decreases were 62.54 and 62.20 kg. Mean milk production declined from 3.98 to 1.33 L/cow/day, a 66.6% reduction, and 85% of recorded estrus events occurred during the rainy season. These findings indicate marked seasonal variation in herd performance and support improved forage planning and strategic supplementation during feed-scarce periods. Given the observational design and single-herd setting, the findings represent context-specific seasonal associations rather than causal effects of season.