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Discuss the management practices which contribute to low levels of ewe and lamb mortality at lambing time - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question Question 1 - 2016
Question Question 1
Discuss the management practices which contribute to low levels of ewe and lamb mortality at lambing time. Compare a lowland sheep production system with a hill she... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the management practices which contribute to low levels of ewe and lamb mortality at lambing time - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question Question 1 - 2016
Step 1
Discuss the management practices which contribute to low levels of ewe and lamb mortality at lambing time.
Answer
To minimize ewe and lamb mortality at lambing time, several critical management practices are essential:
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Housing and Hygiene: Proper housing ensures that ewes are protected from harsh weather conditions. Maintaining hygiene is crucial to prevent diseases that can lead to mortality. Regular cleaning of bedding and facilities reduces the risk of infections.
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Predator Control: Measures should be taken to avoid predators, which can threaten both ewes and their lambs. Implementation of security measures or use of guard animals can help mitigate risks.
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Nutrition: Ensuring that ewes have a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs is fundamental. Proper feeding programs should be established, focusing on the nutritional requirements during late gestation to promote the health of both ewes and lambs.
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Supervision: Regular monitoring and supervision of ewes during the lambing period can lead to timely assistance, particularly for those experiencing difficulties in lambing. Immediate intervention can prevent loss due to complications.
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Preparation: Pre-lambing preparation such as ensuring proper bond and behaviour of ewes is vital. This might include fostering techniques when needed to ensure lambs receive the best start in life, including colostrum intake.
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Health Management: Regular veterinary checks and vaccinations can prevent diseases that threaten the lives of ewes and lambs. Also, practices such as the removal of mucus from the lamb's mouth and nose after birth can enhance lamb survival rates.
Step 2
(i) Choice of breed.
Answer
When comparing lowland and hill sheep production systems, the choice of breed is crucial.
- Lowland: Typically, lowland systems may utilize commercial meat-producing breeds or crossbreeds that have high fertility rates and better lambing abilities, enabling higher production of twins.
- Hill: Hill systems generally use hardier, purebred breeds adapted to harsher climates and landscape, which might be less productive in terms of lambing frequency but are resilient.
Step 3
(ii) Stocking rate.
Answer
Stocking rates vary significantly between lowland and hill sheep systems:
- Lowland: These systems often accommodate higher stocking rates due to availability of better forage, which supports more sheep per hectare. This makes for a more intensive production system.
- Hill: In contrast, hill systems tend to have lower stocking rates due to rough terrain and poorer quality pasture, necessitating a more extensive grazing approach.
Step 4
(iii) Management practices.
Answer
Management practices also differ notably:
- Lowland: More intense management is common here, including regular monitoring for diseases, enhanced feeding regimes, and artificial breeding techniques. This system allows for targeted interventions to maximize productivity.
- Hill: The management practices in hill systems are often less intensive, focusing on natural grazing practices and less frequent interventions, aligning with the resilience of the breeds raised.
Step 5
(iv) Lambing percentage.
Answer
Lambing percentages also illustrate the differences between these systems:
- Lowland: Typically, lowland production systems achieve higher lambing percentages (often up to 180% or more) due to carefully managed breeding and feeding strategies.
- Hill: Conversely, hill sheep systems usually see lower lambing percentages (often 100% to 120%) because the breeds may not produce as many twins and face environmental challenges.
Step 6
Describe the main characteristics to be considered when selecting a grass variety for grazing.
Answer
When selecting a grass variety for grazing, several key characteristics should be taken into account:
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Productivity: The yield of grass is crucial to ensure adequate fodder availability throughout the grazing season. Higher yields maximize the benefits for grazing animals.
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Persistence: The grass variety should exhibit persistence, remaining productive year after year, providing stable forage support over time.
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Digestibility: A high digestibility rate is essential, as it affects how well animals can metabolize the grass for nutrients, influencing animal health and productivity.
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Nutritional Value: The selected grass should provide a well-balanced diet, meeting the nutritional needs of the grazing animals, promoting their overall performance.
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Palatability: Finally, the taste and preference of animals for the grass variety should be considered. Good palatability ensures animals graze effectively, utilizing the forage available.