Live Weights of Kıvırcık Ewes and Lambs in Some Periods under Extensive Management Conditions

Authors: İBRAHİM CEMAL, ORHAN KARACA, TUFAN ALTIN, MUSTAFA KAYMAKÇI

Abstract: The aims of the present study were to evaluate the growth characteristics of Kıvırcık sheep and describe non-genetic factors influencing their expression. Data were collected from 6 flocks including a nucleus flock and 5 breeders’ flocks (2 in mountainous and 3 in lowland villages). Flocks raised in extensive conditions were kept in pastures throughout the year. The body weight of ewes at parturition and the birth and weaning weight of lambs were recorded during 2 lambing seasons (1999-2000 and 2000-2001). The least-squares mean of ewe body weight at parturition was 42.2 kg. Lambing season, flock and age of ewe were significant (P < 0.01) sources of variation for body weights of ewes at parturition. Mean birth weight of lambs was 3.56 kg. The means of flock, birth type and sex of lambs for birth weight were significantly different (P < 0.01); however, the effect of lambing season and age of dam on birth weight was not significant. Birth weight was also significantly (P < 0.01) influenced by dam body weight at parturition. Mean weaning weight of lambs weaned at an average age of 66.5 days was 18.5 kg. Weaning weight was influenced significantly by lambing season, flock, sex, birth weight and weaning age (P < 0.01) but not by birth type or age of dam. The results of this study indicated that Kıvırcık lambs had a good growth rate.

Keywords: Kıvırcık, ewe, lamb, birth weight, weaning weight

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