Abstract
The objective of the current pilot study was to evaluate the reproductive performance and health indicators in Dorper, White Dorper, and Tsigai breed ewes managed semi-intensively under European temperate conditions. A total of 544 ewe-year units were observed, with ewes (ranging from 1.5 to 8 years of age) managed under identical rearing conditions for a period of two consecutive production cycles (2012 through 2013 and 2013 through 2014). In general, significant (p≤0.001) genotype-related disparities were found in occurrence rates for all health parameters taken into study. Clinical mastitis incidence was significantly lower (p≤0.05) in Dorper (9.4%) and White Dorper (10.8%) breeds compared to that of Tsigai ewes (17.4%). Significant differences (p≤0.05) for lameness were found between Dorper and Tsigai breeds, with occurrence rates of 8.0% and 2.9%, respectively. Incidence for pneumonia and abortion was not influenced (p>0.05) by the ewes’ genotype. Litter size was significantly lower (p≤0.05) in White Dorper breed than for Dorper and Tsigai ewes, of 1.21, 1.40, and 1.45, respectively. Conception rates and lambs survival were not affected (p>0.05) by genotype. Results suggest that South African Dorper and White Dorper sheep breeds have adapted well to the specific rearing conditions.
Highlights
Poor flock health and reproductive outputs constrain decidedly sheep productivity and welfare (Matheson et al, 2012; Gowane et al, 2014)
Notable genotype-related disparities were found, with ewes breed significantly influencing (p≤0.001) the occurrence rates for all health parameters taken into study
Results are consistent with estimates of Giadinis et al (2011), which report occurrence rates for mastitis of over 10% for commercial sheep flocks
Summary
Poor flock health and reproductive outputs constrain decidedly sheep productivity and welfare (Matheson et al, 2012; Gowane et al, 2014). To the best of our knowledge, no other comparative study concerning the reproduction and health traits of Dorper and White Dorper breeds under semi-intensive European rearing conditions exists up to this moment. The objective of the current pilot study was to evaluate the reproductive performance and health indicators in Dorper, White Dorper, and Tsigai breed ewes managed semi-intensively under European temperate conditions.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
