The effect of sire breed on colostrum production of crossbred ewes

Abstract

Recently there has been increased interest in the effect of sire breed on the carcass characteristics of lambs. However, when breeding ewe replacements maternal characteristics are important. For example, an adequate supply of colostrum is vital to the newborn lamb in order to provide energy for heat production, and maternal antibodies for protection against infectious diseases. The objective of this study was to examine the effect on colostrum production of using a meat type ram rather than a milk type ram when producing crossbred ewes.