Question

What is inappropriate with respect to breeding of ewes and does?

• A. Tupping period should not exceed 3 months
• B. Breeding of ewes/does should be so regulated as to obtain crop throughout the year
• C. It is good to put ram with ewes at night during tupping period
• D. It is good not to allow ram with ewes during grazing during tupping period

Hint:

Use "flushing" (feeding breeding females extra grain \(2\) to \(3\) weeks before mating) to increase ovulation rates and boost the percentage of twins.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Small ruminant production (sheep and goats) relies on breeding cycles timed to match lambing/kidding with favorable seasons and pasture growth.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each statement:
- Option (A): The tupping (breeding) season should be short, ideally under \(2\) to \(3\) months. This groups births into a tight window, which makes pasture and health management much easier. This is a correct practice.
- Option (B): Aiming for births "throughout the year" is highly inappropriate. Uncontrolled breeding leads to unscheduled births, some of which will occur during extreme weather or when pasture is scarce, resulting in high mortality rates. Controlled, seasonal births are essential for a profitable flock.
- Option (C) and (D): Keeping the ram with the ewes at night and separating them during daytime grazing is a recommended practice. It prevents the ram from exhausting himself in the heat of the day and ensures efficient mating at night when temperatures are cooler.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The inappropriate practice is breeding ewes and does to obtain births throughout the year.