Changes in live weight and body condition of rams of three breeds throughout the year

1976 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 73-80 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. J. F. Russel ◽  
A. J. MacDonald ◽  
C. D. Kerr ◽  
Brenda Rudd
Keyword(s):  
Body Composition ◽  
Body Condition ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Annual Change ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Weight Curve ◽  
Cyclical Pattern ◽  
Male Sheep

SUMMARYMeasurements of the live weight and body condition of 105 Scottish Blackface, North Country Cheviot and South Country Cheviot male sheep (rams) per year were made at three locations over a period of 2 years.A distinct cyclical pattern of change in live weight and body condition throughout the year was apparent in all rams. Maximum values recorded in the autumn were followed by rapid and substantial losses throughout the mating period, with recovery of both weight and condition during the spring and summer months. The amplitude of the annual live-weight curve was of the order of 20 kg (22%) and that of body condition was more than 1 unit.The patterns of annual change in live weight and of inferred change in body composition of rams are compared with those of ewes, and some of the probable effects on production are considered.

Estimation in vivo of the chemical composition of the bodies of mature cows

1984 ◽  
Vol 38 (1) ◽  
pp. 33-44 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. A. Wright ◽  
A. J. F. Russel
Keyword(s):  
Body Composition ◽  
Body Fat ◽  
Body Condition ◽  
Body Condition Score ◽  
Deuterium Oxide ◽  
Subcutaneous Fat ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Eye Muscle ◽  
Ultrasonic Measurements ◽  
Condition Score

ABSTRACTA number of possible indices of body composition (live weight, skeletal size, total body water as estimated by deuterium oxide dilution, blood and red cell volumes as estimated by Evans Blue dilution, ultrasonic measurements of subcutaneous fat depth and eye-muscle area, and body condition scoring) was examined using 73 non-pregnant, non-lactating, mature cows of Hereford × Friesian, Blue-Grey, British Friesian, Galloway and Luing genotypes, ranging in body condition score from 0·75 to 4·5. Direct measurements of body composition in terms of water, fat, protein and ash were made following slaughter.Live weight, deuterium oxide dilution, ultrasonic measurements of subcutaneous fat depth and eyemuscle area, and body condition score were all considered to be potentially useful predictors of body composition. Combinations of techniques offered better predictions than did any single index. Using a combination of measurements it was possible to predict body fat and protein with a residual s.d. of 13·1 kg and 3·15 kg respectively. Breed differences in the partition of fat among the main adipose tissue depots necessitated the development of specific prediction equations for body fat based on condition score and subcutaneous fat depth for different breeds. Equations remain to be developed for predicting body composition in cows in different physiological states.

The effect of feeding supplements in the autumn on the reproductive performance of grazing ewes 2. Feeding supplements in relation to sward height

1992 ◽  
Vol 54 (2) ◽  
pp. 249-258 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. G. Gunn ◽  
J. R. Jones ◽  
D. A. Sim
Keyword(s):  
Body Condition ◽  
Reproductive Performance ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Sward Height ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
Repeated Experiment ◽  
Effect Of Feeding ◽  
Lambing Rate

AbstractThe effects of feeding supplements in relation to sward height in the autumn on the reproductive performance of ewes grazing predominantly perennial ryegrass swards were studied in four experiments with three genotypes. Treatments in which either no supplements were given or supplements were offered according to the height of the sward were compared when ewes were grazed on swards which were managed to decline in height from > 5 cm to 2·5 cm either before or after mating. At a sward height of < 3·5 cm, 400 g ground and pelleted barley was offered per head per day; at < 3·0 cm, 700 g was offered; and, at < 2·5 cm, hay was offered in addition to the barley. Responses to these treatments were compared with that of a treatment in which a sward was maintained at > 5 cm. Sward heights were controlled by varying stocking rate. In experiment 1, with 305 Scottish Blackface ewes, supplementation was not necessary until after the start of the mating period. In experiment 2, with 200 Brecknock Cheviot ewes, the supplementation protocol was examined on swards declining in height either before or after a synchronized mating. Experiment 3 repeated experiment 2 with 200 Beulah Speckled-face ewes and experiment 4 repeated only the pre-mating phase of experiment 3 with 195 Beulah Speckled-face ewes.In experiment 1, ovulation, ova loss and potential lambing rates were determined from the number of corpora lutea and viable embryos at slaughter at 8 to 10 weeks after the start of mating in 103 ewes and lambing rate was determined from the number of lambs at lambing in the remaining 202 ewes. In experiments 2, 3 and 4, ovulation, ova loss and potential lambing rates were determined from the number of corpora lutea and viable embryos at slaughter at return to service or at 4 weeks after a synchronized first mating.Grazing a sward declining in height below 3·5 cm in the pre-mating period significantly reduced ewe live weight, body condition and reproductive performance, particularly in the relatively prolific Beulah Speckled-face breed, compared with grazing a sward maintained at > 5 cm. Supplementation at the levels offered overcame some of the effects of the lower sward height treatment in the pre-mating period but did not compensate fully. Grazing a sward declining in height below 3·5 cm in the post-mating period, although reducing ewe live weight and body condition, had little effect on reproductive performance, compared with that achieved on a sward maintained above 4 cm. Supplementation at the levels offered at the lower sward height during the post-mating period produced no increase in overall reproductive performance and had a negative effect on some reproductive parameters.

Effect of flushing on reproductive performance of ewes

1966 ◽  
Vol 67 (3) ◽  
pp. 305-323 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. E. Coop
Keyword(s):  
Body Condition ◽  
Reproductive Performance ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Dynamic Effect ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Weight Effect ◽  
Grazing Sheep

Eight flushing experiments were conducted with grazing sheep over a 4-year period, the responses being measured at lambing. In the first 2 years mobs of 600-750 ewes were employed. Those experiments were designed to separate, identify and measure the two components postulated as comprising the flushing response—a static live-weight effect not specifically related in time to the mating period, and a dynamic effect of the rising or falling body condition which is specific to the mating period.

Influence of feeding different types feed blocks as supplementary feed on the reproductive performance of Awassi ewes grazing cereal stubble

2005 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 143-151
Author(s):  
A. D. Salman
Keyword(s):  
Cottonseed Meal ◽  
Body Condition ◽  
Reproductive Performance ◽  
Body Condition Score ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Condition Score ◽  
Supplementary Feed ◽  
Lambing Rate

This study was conducted to investigate the Influence of feeding different types feed blocks as supplementary feed on the reproductive performance of Awassi ewes grazing cereal stubble. These types were feed blocks enriched with cottonseed meal (CSM) or Brewers’ grain (BG) as sources undegradable protein (UDP). Ninety-six Awassi ewes (mean live weight 42.2 Kg), aged 3-4 years were allocated into three groups according to ewes live weight and body condition score.Group (C): Control (No Supplement) stubble grazing only.Group (FBC): FB enriched with CSM supplement plus stubble grazing.Group (FBB): FB enriched with BG supplement plus stubble grazing.All ewes were run as one flock during cereal stubble grazing. The feed blocks were fed to animals (supplementary groups) after their return from grazing wheat and barley stubble (28 days prior to mating and 54 days after introduction of rams). Rams run with the flock during the mating period. The results showed that feeding feed blocks enriched with CSM and BG as supplementary feed resulted considerable improvement in weight gain (P<0.05), body condition score (P<0.05), conception rate (13-16), lambing percentage (25-33%), twinning percentage (13-18%) and decreased the proportion of barren ewes (19 vs. 6 and 3%). Inclusion of small amount of high moisture brewers grain by-product (9%) as sources of undegradable protein in the feed blocks formula as replacement for costly cottonseed meal resulted a dramatic effects on the reproductive performance of Awassi ewes especially twinning rates and lambing rate.

The effect of supplementary feeding in relation to sward height during the pre- and post-mating periods on reproductive performance of brecon cheviot ewes

1988 ◽  
Vol 1988 ◽  
pp. 100-100 ◽  
Author(s):  
R.G. Gunn ◽  
T.J. Maxwell ◽  
D.A. Sim ◽  
J.R. Jones ◽  
M.E. James
Keyword(s):  
Growth Rate ◽  
Body Weight ◽  
Body Condition ◽  
Reproductive Performance ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Supplementary Feeding ◽  
Management Decision ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Sward Height ◽  
The Uk

Sward growth rate and height decline under autumn grazing in the UK. This eventually depresses ewe intake, live weight and body condition and may, as a consequence, reduce reproductive performance. The provision of supplementary feeding is a strategic measure to avoid this but requires quantification in relation to measurable variables such as sward height and stage of the reproductive cycle.A management decision rule for supplementary feeding over the mating period, which is currently operated in the MLURI upland system studies, requires that, in order to maintain both body weight and condition until the completion of the second cycle of mating, concentrated feed be introduced when sward height (herbage mass) is ≤3.5 cm (≤1200 kg DM/ha), be increased when height is ≤3.0 cm ( ≤ 1000 kg DM/ha) and ad lib, hay be introduced when height is ≤ 2.5 cm (≤ 750 kg DM/ha).

scholarly journals Determining the factors affecting the gestational length in sheep

2021 ◽  
Vol 64 (1) ◽  
pp. 83-89
Author(s):  
Hilal Tozlu Celik ◽  
Fatih Ahmet Aslan ◽  
Yeliz Kasko Arıcı ◽  
Metehan Eser Kahveci ◽  
İbrahim Kiper
Keyword(s):  
Body Condition ◽  
Body Condition Score ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Positive Association ◽  
The Body ◽  
Body Measurements ◽  
Gestational Length ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Birth Type

Abstract. This research aimed to determine the effects of body weight, the body condition score (BCS), body measurements, birth type (single offspring or twin birth), birth weight and sex on the gestational length in sheep (n=111). Karayaka sheep raised on a private farm were used in the study. Progeny yield characteristics in sheep were also determined (n=139). Estrus was monitored daily using teaser rams from August to September 2016. According to our findings, the pregnancy rate, infertility rate, fecundity, and twin and single birth rates were 93.52 %, 6.48 %, 93.52 %, 14.62 % and 85.38 % respectively. The effect of age on the BCS in sheep at mating was found to be significant (P<0.05): BCS decreased as age increased. It was determined that there was a positive association between the BCS and live weight during the mating period (P<0.001). The chest circumference, front shin circumference and body length were found to be higher in sheep with a BCS ≥ 4.5 at mating time (P<0.01). The middle rump width was significantly affected by the BCS (P<0.001). In this study, the lowest and highest gestational lengths were found to be 148.90 and 151.41 d respectively. The gestational length in sheep was not found to be affected by age, the BCS, body measurements, sex or birth type (P>0.05); however, it was observed that the gestational lengths for male offspring and single offspring (non-multiple births) were longer. In addition, it was detected that the gestational length was different in sheep with a BCS ≥ 4.5. The time spent in the womb is important with respect to obtaining a healthy lamb. For profitable production, a BCS of between 2.5 and 4 is recommended in sheep. It is thought that the use of body condition scoring, which is easy information for the breeder to utilize, will have a positive effect on determining the bodily reserves of sheep and the reproductive efficiency as well as on obtaining a healthy lamb. More studies on the gestational length in sheep are required.

scholarly journals Relationship of body condition score and live weight with body composition in mature Churra ewes

1997 ◽  
Vol 64 (3) ◽  
pp. 447-452 ◽  
Author(s):  
P. Frutos ◽  
A. R. Mantecón ◽  
F. J. Giráldez
Keyword(s):  
Body Composition ◽  
Body Condition ◽  
Body Condition Score ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
The Body ◽  
Lumbar Region ◽  
Northern Spain ◽  
Fat Depots ◽  
Condition Score ◽  
Intermuscular Fat

AbstractThirty-five mature Churra ewes, ranging in live weight from 30·3 to 52·6 kg and in body condition score from 1·25 to 4·00 were used to study the relationship between body condition score (BCS), live weight (LW) and body composition and fat distribution in ewes of this breed, which is one of the major sheep breeds of northern Spain. The procedure at slaughter and at subsequent dissection was designed to partition each body into two components, carcass and ‘non-carcass’. Right side carcasses and ‘non-carcass’ components were used to analyse the chemical composition. From the left side of the lumbar region a joint was cut and dissected into muscle, bone, subcutaneous and intermuscular fat. According to the results obtained, omental fat represented the highest proportion of total internal fat regardless of the level of fatness. Distribution of internal fat was similar to that observed in other milk production breeds. Regressions on LW explained more of the variation than those on BCS for individual internal fat depots and chemically determined ‘non-carcass’ fat. The prediction of total body fat afforded by LW was better than that provided by BCS. The subcutaneous and intermuscular fat depots in the lumbar joint were well correlated with BCS, carcass fat and total fat in the body, validating the use of this region for assessing BCS in Churra ewes. Nevertheless, the correlation coefficient with the omental depot was not statistically significant. The results of this study suggest that BCS was not as accurate for estimating body composition and fat depots in mature Churra ewes as has been shown previously in other breeds. The single most effective prediction index was LW. However, the utilization of both BCS and LW together provided more accurate estimations.

The effects of ewe live weight and body condition score around mating on production from four sheep breeds in extensive grazing systems in Uruguay

1997 ◽  
Vol 64 (1) ◽  
pp. 139-145 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. E. Gonzalez ◽  
D. Labuonora ◽  
A. J. E. Russel
Keyword(s):  
Body Condition ◽  
Body Condition Score ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
The Body ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Wool Production ◽  
Condition Score ◽  
Grazing Systems ◽  
Breeding Seasons

AbstractEwe live iveights were recorded 4 weeks prior to mating, at the beginning of mating and 22 to 23 days later over a period of 3 years in a flock of some 300 breeding ewes comprising approximately equal numbers of Australian Merino, Ideal (Polwarth), Merilin and Corriedale breeds in a pastorally based grazing system in Uruguay. Multiple-bearing ewes were generally heavier than single-bearing ewes which in turn were heavier than ewes which did not conceive, these differences being greatest in 3- and 4-year-old ewes (i.e. in their second and third breeding seasons). Body condition scores of non-pregnant ewes were lower than those of pregnant ewes, particularly in the 3-and 4-year-old age groups. Ewe live weights achieved prior to, during and at the end of the mating period and the body condition score achieved 4 weeks prior to mating all had significant influences on the number of lambs born (P < 0·01) but there were no significant effects of changes in either live weight or body condition over the 4 weeks prior to mating or during the mating period. The effect of body condition score over the range from 2·0 to 4·0 was to increase the proportions of single- and multiple-bearing ewes and to decrease the proportion of non-pregnant ewes such that the number of lambs born per ewe mated increased from 0·94 to 1·38. Fleece weights differed significantly between breeds, Corriedales having the heaviest fleeces and Merilins the lightest (4·26 and 3·22 kg respectively). Wool production was also significantly and positively affected by age (P < 0·01) and by ewe weight at mating (P < 0·01). The results demonstrate the importance of giving preferential nutritional treatment to younger ewes to ensure a satisfactory subsequent lambing performance and improved wool production.

The effect of feeding supplements in the autumn on the reproductive performance of grazing ewes 1. Feeding fixed amounts of supplement before and during mating

1992 ◽  
Vol 54 (2) ◽  
pp. 243-248 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. G. Gunn ◽  
J. A. Milne ◽  
A. J. Senior ◽  
A. M. Sibbald
Keyword(s):  
Organic Matter ◽  
Body Condition ◽  
Reproductive Performance ◽  
Fish Meal ◽  
Live Weight ◽  
Stocking Rate ◽  
Mating Period ◽  
Sward Height ◽  
Stocking Rates ◽  
Effect Of Feeding

AbstractThe effects on reproductive performance offeeding supplements to ewes grazing predominantly perennial ryegrass swards before and during mating which started in mid November were examined with approximately 200 Scottish Blackface ewes in each of three experiments. In two experiments, ewes were offered no supplement (C), 600 g barley (S(B)) or 500 g barley + 100 g white-fish meal (S(B + FM)) per head per day from 3 weeks before until 3 weeks after the start of the mating period. Ewes in experiment 1 were grazed on different areas and in experiment 2 were rotated around these areas on a 12-day cycle. Initial herbage allowance in both experiments was 40 to 50 kg organic matter per ewe and stocking rates ranged from 10 to 14 ewes per ha. Ewes in experiment 3 were rotated around the same areas on a 10-day cycle at a stocking rate of 18 ewes per ha and offered either no supplement (C) or 600 g barley (S(B)) per head per day when live weight started to decrease or sward height declined to 3·5 cm, whichever occurred first. Both of these occurred shortly after the start of mating. Sward height fell from mid October and throughout November and was between 3 and 4 cm at the start of mating in all experiments.There were no differences in response to the (S(B)) and (S(B + FM)) treatments in live weight, body condition or reproductive performance in experiments 1 and 2 and the effects of supplementation were examined with these treatments pooled.Supplementation had very little effect on live weight, resulting in higher values only in experiment 1 but did produce higher body condition in all experiments. This occurred by the start of mating in experiment 1 but not until mid December in experiment 3 and early January in experiment 2.A significant increase in the number of lambs born per ewe lambing was obtained from supplementation when the data from experiments 1 and 2 were combined (P < 0·05). There was no response in reproductive performance to supplementation in experiment 3. It was concluded that supplementation in the pre-mating period can improve reproductive performance when sward height declines from 6 to 3·5 cm but that supplementation in the post-mating period may not, even when the sward height is below 3·5 cm.

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