Theme:
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An al feed
AGRICULTURAL
Feeding of and caring for the
ram lamb
The ram makes a phenomenal contribution to successful herd management and improve-
ment. The genetic potential of the ram lamb is already affected by the management prac-
tices of the producer from six weeks before birth.
By Giepie Calldo
Peritum Agri Institute follicle development takes place from birth
and for three weeks thereafter. energy to 16% protein in respect of her
nutrition.
his is the period during which the
growth of the fetus, primary wool
follicle development as well as
udder tissue development take
place. The growth of the fetus at this crit-
ical stage will eventually determine body
mass; primary wool follicle development
will determine wool production and udder
tissue development is required to ensure
that the ewe will have sufficient colostrum
and milk production to feed the ram to full
potential after birth. The secondary wool FEEDING AND FETUS DEVELOPMENT
At six weeks before birth, is when the
eventual growth potential of the fetus can
receive the most damage due to incorrect
feeding. Apart from the lost potential due
to malnutrition, it can also result in low
birth mass (2 to 3kg) and mortalities.
The feed requirements of a pregnant
ewe are 3,5% of her body mass. Well-
balanced nutrition is necessary for the
production of good colostrum, which
determines the immunity of the ram over
his lifespan. Maintain a good ratio of 68% FEEDING OF THE RAM LAMB AFTER
BIRTH
In order to optimally feed the ram lamb,
the lactating ewe requires 4,5% of her
body mass as daily feed. Creep feeding
must be set up from 10 days after birth
and is essential since it will determine the
ram's eating pattern over its lifespan. The
ability of the ram to adjust to its feed, is
essential since rams often change owners
and feed patters as a result. Feed chang-
es can result in infertility since it takes
approximately 21 days for the micro-or-
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SENWES SCENARIO | WINTER 2019