Infertility in Sheep and Goats

Question 1

definition of ‘Infertility’

Answer 1

sub-optimal reproductive performance

Question 2

definition of ‘sterility’

Answer 2

complete loss of reproductive ability

Question 3

factors affecting profitability of sheep enterprise

Answer 3

stocking rate and lambing percentage

Question 4

what is the ‘lambing percentage’

Answer 4

no. of lambs weaned/reared/sold per 100 ewes put to lamb

Question 5

poor lambing percentages often can be caused by 4 factors-

Answer 5

1. poor conception rate
2. poor ovulation rate
3. high embryonic/foetal loss
4. abortion/stillbirth/perinatal loss

Question 6

measuring reproductive performance using

1. Fertility
2. Fecundity
3. Survival rate

Answer 6

1. Fertility- look at percentage of ewes pregnant/barren
2. Fecundity- no. of lambs born per pregnancy
3. Survival rate- no. that survive to weaning