Comparison of the behavior of hybrids and domestic lambs in the early postnatal period

Abstract

Using hybridization, breeds of merino sheep and archaromerinos were bred. At the same time, researchers note the possibility of transferring the characteristics of behavior and habits by inheritance from parents. The research aims to study the behavioral responses of first‐generation hybrid lambs in the early postnatal period in comparison with the behavior of ordinary domestic lambs. The object of the study was 4 hybrids of the first generation (ovchubuk) obtained from domestic sheep inseminated with the epididymal sperm of a bighorn sheep (chubuku), and 4 domestic lambs. Animals were kept in a pen of 625 m2 for close and constant contact with people. The observation was carried out from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the early postnatal period ‐ from birth to 4.5 months and the post‐weaning period ‐ from 4.5 to 6 months. The manifestation of reflexes or instincts was recorded on a letter, photo, video. Attempts to stand up newborn hybrids showed in the first 8‐10 minutes, 12‐15 minutes after birth they rose to all limbs, the lambs were able to stand up for 25‐30 minutes. The hybrids received the first portions of colostrum for 18‐20 minutes domestic ones for 35‐38 minutes. A characteristic feature of the hybrids was the diversity and duration of the sucking reflex. It lasted only 15‐17sec with breaks every 10‐15 minutes. In the lambs of the control group, the sucking reflex was calm and prolonged ‐ 1.5‐2 minutes. All newborn hybrids jumped on the backs of their mothers. The hybrids were distinguished by increased activity while maintaining caution good orientation in space, which was not observed in the lambs of the control group. The instinct of self‐preservation in hybrids was “silence.” When weighing and collecting biomaterial, the hybrids did not make any extra sounds, which cannot be said about the control group. In the “man‐animal” system, hybrids were quickly tamed in a smaller containment area. In the mother‐offspring system, the lambs of both groups followed their mothers everywhere. The hybrids showed: curiosity, keeping alert, jumping from a place, jumped with a 180‐degree turn in flight. In general, the ethological features of hybrid lambs differ significantly from the behavior of domestic lambs. After the birth of hybrid offspring, they use the instinct of cubs to imitate the behavior of an adult animal from a very early age. In addition, it is necessary to organize work so that pregnant sheep are in constant contact with humans in compact pens.