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1st Int. Transborder Conf. of the Timor Island: Timor %u2013 Science without borderDili, 7-8 May 202538Characteristics of the Traditional Extensive Management System of Droughtmaster Cattle in Lautem Administrative Post, Timor-LesteRogerio DJ Amaral*and Alipio de AlmeidaAnimal Health Department, Faculty of Agriculture, UNTL*Corresponding authors email: atajesus1971@gmail.comAbstractThe extensive traditional system of rearing Droughtmaster cattle in Timor-Leste is characterized by free-range grazing along coastal areas, with no structured housing, health management, or reproductive control. While Droughtmaster cattle demonstrate resilience to harsh tropical conditions, the absence of vaccination, parasite control, and breeding management significantly limits their productivity and exposes them to disease and genetic degradation. Droughtmaster cattle, developed in northern Australia through the crossbreeding of Bos indicus (Brahman) and Bos taurus (Shorthorn), are well-suited for tropical climates due to their heat tolerance and disease resistance. Introduced to Timor-Leste in the 1980s under the Indonesian administration through the Banpres program, they were selected for their adaptability and robustness. Today, they contribute to both beef and, increasingly, milk production, particularly in the eastern regions of the country. This study aims to assess the characteristics of the traditional extensive management system of Droughtmaster cattle in the Lautem Administrative Post (AP), Timor-Leste, and to propose recommendations for improving productivity, livestock health, and reproductive management. Field observations and semi-structured interviews were conducted with livestock owners, suco chiefs, and veterinary and agricultural technicians. Data collected included information on management practices, health conditions, infrastructure, reproduction, and disease control measures. The analysis was conducted using descriptive and qualitative methods. Under the current system, Droughtmaster cattle are managed extensively, roaming freely along the coast without permanent shelters. There are no formal health programs in place, such as vaccination or parasite control. The cattle graze on natural pastures and drink from nearby rivers. Some farmers practice collective grazing, allowing their cattle to roam together in shared areas. Natural mating occurs freely, including crossbreeding with locally adapted Bali cattle, without owner intervention. This unregulated management system limits productivity and increases susceptibility to disease. The lack of housing and veterinary infrastructure hampers routine health interventions and disease control. Moreover, uncontrolled breeding risks the genetic integrity of the breed. Despite these challenges, Droughtmaster cattle hold significant potential for both meat and milk production. To realize this potential, the following improvements are recommended: Development of basic housing and crush pens, Implementation of regular vaccination and health management programs, Introduction of artificial insemination to regulate breeding, and Strengthening livestock management capacity through farmer training and technical support. These measures are essential for enhancing cattle productivity, improving animal health, and promoting sustainable livestock farming in Timor-Leste.Keywords: Droughtmaster cattle; Extensive management; Livestock health; Natural breeding; extensive traditional system, Timor-Leste