Seasonal changes in circulating mineral contents of sheep and goats on different types of pasture

Circulating levels of macro and micro minerals of sheep and goats maintained on different types of pasture during lush and lean seasons were assessed. serum Ca, P, Cu, Zn and Mn levels during lush and lean seasons were 9.3, 8.1 mg%; 3.4, 2.9 mg%; 157, 134 μg%; 179, 141 μg% and 16, 13 μg% in sheep. Corresponding values in goats were 9.4, 8.8 mg%; 3.5, 2.9 mg% 160, 141 μg%; 190, 150 μg% and 19, 14 μg% respectively. It was evident that circulating level of Ca was generally higher in sheep and goats maintained on natural rangeland and three tier silvipasture. It was concluded that circulating levels of critical macro and micro minerals in sheep and goats maintained on different types of pasture were within normal range of variation and as such do not require any additional supplementation.