Sheep

Question 1

How can the sheep breeding season be manipulated?

Answer 1

• Requires an increase in ram power
• methods
  
  • Control of photoperiod
  • Use of a vasectomised ram (teaser)
  • Use of melatonin implant
  • Use of progesterone impregnated sponges and GnRH analogue
  • Tightening the lambing period
• Advantages
  
  • Shorter requirements for extra labour
  • Easier to manage pregnant ewes
  • Tighter age grouped batches of lambs
  • Lower disease risk
  • Easier management for target weight

Question 2

What are the disadvantages of sheep artificial insemination?

Answer 2

• Conception rates lower than with live cover
• Laparascopic intrauterie method used
  
  • Requires veterinary surgeon
  • Requires anaesthesia
  • Surgery
• Is expensive
• Requires synchronization