Body condition variations in sheep and breeding systems in the region of Chlef, Algeria

Abstract

The body condition scores (BCS) of groups of ewes bred for reproduction were recorded in farms in Chlef region in Algeria from February 2012 to April 2013. The body condition and body reserves of the ewes varied according to i) the category of females concerned (lambing in September-October or in March-April) and ii) the farm. Taking into account the quantities of fodder distributed in supplement of pasture and body reserves enabled us to make a diagnosis on the feed in each situation. The interaction between the body condition of the ewes at mating and their reproduction performance was evidenced. Indeed, as BCS at mating increased, fertility and prolificacy improved. The ewes with BCS at mating higher than or equal to 3 obtained 100% fertility and 130% prolificacy rates, against 76% and 100%, respectively, for those with a BCS lower than 3.