The quantity and quality of feed resources in relation to the livestock population were assessed in the Bale Highlands of Ethiopia. Crop residues and stubble accounted for 74% of the feed supply. Crude protein (CP) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) were higher (P < 0.001) for feed from natural pasture than for crop residues. Fibre content was higher (P < 0.05) for crop residues and stubble. The feed available per household satisfied the maintenance DM requirement of the livestock. The dominant feed resources throughout the year met 131% of the maintenance metabolizable energy (ME) requirement of the livestock per household. However, CP was deficient even for maintenance, meeting only 87% of the maintenance requirement of the animals and indicating the need for supplementation.
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