REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF MECHERI SHEEP IN AN ORGANIZED FARM
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Date
2019-12
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Abstract
Reproductive performance in an organized sheep farm of TANUVAS, Tamil Nadu was analysed for
the period, 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19. Number of ewes available for breeding was 332, 345 and 344
respectively. Number of ewes tupped were 305, 320 and 310 resulting in tupping percentage of 91.87, 92.75
and 90.12, respectively. The farm has been practising seasonal mating with natural service in two breeding
seasons viz., main season between August-September and off season between March-April. Flushing is done
2-3 weeks prior to mating season with extra concentrate feed. Under seasonal breeding tupping percentage
recorded was satisfactory. Out of the tupped ewes, 272, 257 and 265 ewes lambed. Lambing percentage on
tupped basis were 89.18, 80.31 and 85.48 respectively. Though the lambing percentage was satisfactory,
there is still hope for improvement. Lambing percentage of more than 90 per cent would have been ideal.
Since Mecheri breed of sheep is reared in semi-arid region twinning is rare. In these three years twinning
percentage of 1.84, 1.53 and 1.88 were recorded. Age at first lambing in days was 619, 637 and 590. The breed
is attaining breedable age early compared to many other breeds. Lambing interval were 278, 270 and 275
days respectively for the three years. The breed is giving three lambings in two years of period which is good.
Overall reproductive performance of the farm was satisfactory. There is scope to increase tupping percentage
by oestrus synchronization and lambing percentage by improved management.
Description
TNV_35thVCRI_CA_Dec-2019_SRSO-19
Keywords
Veterinary Science