HOME HELP FEEDBACK SUBSCRIPTIONS ARCHIVE SEARCH TABLE OF CONTENTS		QUICK SEARCH:   [advanced] Author: Keyword(s): Year:  Vol:  Page:

This Article Full Text (PDF) Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Darlow, A. E. Articles by Hawkins, L. E. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Darlow, A. E. Articles by Hawkins, L. E.

The Influence of Nutrition on the Oestrous Cycle in the Ewe

Oklahoma A. & M. College

Abstract

There is a widespread belief among sheep men that the breeding season of sheep may be influenced by feeding. They believe that certain methods of feeding or "flushing" in the fall will bring ewes in heat earlier and cause them to "settle" more readily, resulting in an earlier and more uniform lamb crop. They further believe that "flushing" will increase the percentage of twin lambs. Most sheep men who practice "flushing" attempt to have some fresh green pasture available at breeding time, or in the absence of pasture they usually add grain to the ration, the idea being to have the ewes gaining in flesh when breeding season starts.

This practice of "flushing" has not always given the results claimed for it but in some cases it apparently has been beneficial. The belief in "flushing" has had a firm hold on the minds of sheep men for so long that several well defined cases of poor results will not shake their belief in it. "Flushing" is not only advocated and practiced by practical sheep growers but is recommended by most modern sheep authorities.