Grazing behaviour and diet selection by Dorper sheep

Abstract

The grazing behaviour and diet selection by Dorper sheep, as well as other related aspects (pasture intake, walking habits and trampling) is reviewed. It was clear that Dorper sheep are less-selective grazers, compared to Merino-type breeds. Dorpers utilised shrubs and bushes to a greater extent, but grass to a lesser extent in relation to Merino sheep. The Dorper also utilised a larger number of different plant species than Merinos. Dorpers walked less to select food, or a suitable spot to graze, which consequently led to a shorter grazing time and less separate grazing periods. Dorpers consumed less herbage per metabolic size compared to Merino-type sheep. No uniform pattern in the walking distance of Dorpers was observed when compared to other sheep breeds. The relative trampling factor for Dorper sheep was less than that of evaluated Merino-type sheep. The review revealed a lack on information on the grazing behaviour and diet selection of Dorper sheep under more intensive grazing conditions. There is also a total lack of scientific information on other behaviour aspects of this unique breed.