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Effects of Sex, Age of Lamb and Length of Feeding upon Energy Metabolism and Carcass Traits of Lambs

New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001

Abstract

FEEDERS have commonly observed that rate of gain of fattening lambs decreases as they grow or fatten. Although information has accumulated on the effects of sex and length of the feeding period on live-weight gain and carcass traits, little is known concerning the combined effects of the feeding period and the age of the lamb on body composition and energy metabolism in lambs. Sex of the animal has a pronounced effect upon growth and carcass traits. Kromann, Ray and Nelson (1966) found no significant difference in weight gain and carcass data for lambs of both sexes fed rations supplemented with protein at 1-, 7-, 14- or 21-day intervals; however, wethers gained significantly more than ewe lambs and utilized the energy of the ration more efficiently. Ray and Mandigo (1963) found no difference in loin-eye areas from ram and ewe lambs; however, Bradford and Spurlock (1964) found rams had larger loin-eye areas than wethers.

¹ Journal Article No. 333. Agricultural Experiment Station, New Mexico State University, University Park. Associate Professor and former Assistant Professor, respectively, Department of Animal Science Agricultural Experiment Station, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico.