Effect of concentrate Supplementation to Ewes grazing on community rangeland during late Gestation and early lactation

Malpura and Kheri ewes (16), 3–4 years old, in their late gestation and weighing an average 41.5±2.93 kg as were randomly selected and divided into 2 groups of 8 each (G1 and G2). Ewes in all the groups were grazed on natural rangeland from 07.00 to 18.00 hr. The ewes in G2 were maintained on sole grazing while those in G1, in addition to grazing received pelleted concentrate mixture at the rate of 400 g/ewe/day during entire late gestation and early lactation. The body weight of ewes at parturition was higher in G1 than that in G2. The ewes in G2 and G1 lost 1.84 and 1.14 kg body weight, respectively at parturition in comparison to that of advanced pregnancy. The birth weight of lambs in G1 (3.89 kg) was higher (P<0.05) than that in G2 (3.29 kg). The body weights of lambs at 30, 45 and 60 days of age were higher (P<0.01) in G1 than that in G2. The body weight gain and average daily gain (g) of lambs in 60 days of age was also higher (P<0.05) in G1 than that in G2. The ewes grazing on community rangelands are not able to meet their nutrient requirements during late gestation and early lactation. However, concentrate supplementation at the rate of 400 g/ewe/day during these critical stages enhanced their production performance, as well as birth weight and growth rate of lambs.