Experiments were conducted to study the digestibility of nutrients in crossbred (Corriedale x Deccani) sheep fed on different levels of crude protein, keeping the energy level constant in the concentrate mixture. Forty weaned crossbred iambs were distributed into five groups of 8 animals each and were allotted to rations containing 10, 12, 14, 16 and l8% CPintheconcentrate mixture. Green Anjan grass formed the sole source of roughage. Metabolism trials were conducted at about 17 kg (Stage I) and 25 kg (Stage II) body weights. Significant (P<0.01) differences were observed in DMI due to stages of growth whereas, no such differences were observed due to different rations. Different treatments had a significant (P<0.01) effect on CP and EE digestibility whereas, stages of growth exhibited a significant (P<0.01) effect on CF and NFE digestibility. Highest CP digestibility and nitrogen retentions were observed in animals fed 14% CP in the concentrate. All the experimental animals were in positive N, Ca and P balances. Both treatments and stages of growth had a significant effect on N, Ca and P retention. Animals weighing approximately 25 kg consumed significantly (P<0.01) more DCP and TDN per 100 kg and per kg metabolic body weight. Treatments and stages of growth had a significant (P<0.01) effect on DCP intakes, whereas, treatments did not have any significant effect on TDN intakes. The results showed that ration containing 14% CP with 74% TDN is better than other rations for feeding crossbred sheep.
