Performance of lambs out of ewes from different genetic groups and submitted to flushing

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to analyze the productive performance of lambs, out of ewes of different genetic groups and submitted to different feeding managements before and during the mating season, from birth until weaning. One hundred and twenty-six lambs were used, from the genetic groups ½ Corriedale + ½ Texel (11), Hampshire Down (73), Ile de France (26) and Suffolk (16), born in two consecutive years. The ewes were submitted to three feeding managements: T1 – without supplementation, T2 - supplemented with 600 g/day of corn grain, and T3 - supplemented with 600 g/ day of a ration containing 75% of corn and 25% of soybean meal. Body weight and weight gain were analysed individually and by litter size. Flushing did not influence weight and weight gain of lambs. Twin lambs, in the individual analysis, showed lower body weight and weight gain compared to single lambs, but in the analysis by litter size, the sum of the twin lambs showed greater body weight and weight gain compared to single lambs. Differences in body weight and weight gain were observed among the genetic groups and between the sexes, where males were heavier and presented greater weight gain. Twin lambs showed higher mortality than single lambs. Although flushing can provide greater number of lambs, a considerable profit was not verified. It is concluded that flushing do not influence in the performance of lambs, and that twin lambs show higher mortality than single ones, and flushing is not profitable.

Keywords

• Breeds; Feed supplementation; Sheep; Twins; Weight gain