Effect of Harsh environmental conditions on nutrient utilization and blood parameters of Awassi sheep and Kilis goat fed different levels of concentrate feed

To determine the season effect (summer vs winter) on nutrient utilization and blood, rumen parameters of Awassi ram lambs and male Kilis goats fed different concentrate levels, 8 each of Awassi ram lambs and Kilis male goats were arranged in 2 x 2 x 2 factorial in which season (summer vs winter), animal species (sheep vs goat) and concentrate level (80 vs 50%) were the main effects. Ram lambs consumed more DM (P<0.05) than goats (2.63 vs 2.40% of BW). During the summer season, water consumption of animals was almost twice that of winter season. During winter nutrient digestibilities decreased. High concentrate diet resulted in higher DM, OM, CP digestibilities and lower ADF, NDF digestibilities. Rectal and nose temperatures were recorded lower during winter season. Serum glucose level increased during winter but other parameters were within normal physiological limits. It is concluded that Kilis goat coped better with heat load but not with cold exposure as compared to Awassi sheep.