Mating weaners does not affect future ewe performance

Authors

R J. Suiter
K. P. CrokerFollow

Keywords

Sheep, Age at first lambing, Reproductive performance

Disciplines

Comparative and Evolutionary Physiology | Population Biology | Sheep and Goat Science

First Page Number

92

ISSN

0021-8618

Abstract

Maiden ewes in Western Australia are usually mated in their second year because of supposed ill-effects of earlier mating on the ewe's future production. Mating at a younger age however, providing there was no reduction in future performance, would provide for an extra lamb drop and thus increase the lifetime output of ewes.

Information from various sources indicated that weaners could be successfully mated providing their bodyweights were satisfactory. This trial was carried out to test the results of mating weaners under Western Australian conditions.

Recommended Citation

Suiter, R J. and Croker, K. P. (1970) "Mating weaners does not affect future ewe performance," Journal of the Department of Agriculture, Western Australia, Series 4: Vol. 11: No. 4, Article 9.
Available at: https://library.dpird.wa.gov.au/journal_agriculture4/vol11/iss4/9