To ensure successful sheep farming, the scale of sheep rearing should be determined based on the family's overall situation, including economic status, available labor, land area, and the availability of feed. Typically, 50 to 80 sheep per laborer is a reasonable range. Expanding the flock can lead to higher economic returns, provided it is managed properly.
Selecting the right breed is crucial for high-quality meat production. The Boer goat is currently one of the best breeds due to its fast growth and superior meat quality, with rams averaging 90 kg and ewes between 65–75 kg. It’s also advisable to consider breeds like the hornless Dorset, Durber, or Small Tail Han sheep, or to crossbreed them with local sheep to improve genetic quality. To maintain and enhance the flock, the following practices are essential:
1. Avoid keeping weak, thin, or old rams.
2. Introduce rams and ewes of the same breed or crossbreed them with high-quality animals to improve genetics.
3. Select top-performing rams and pair them with unrelated ewes for breeding.
4. Households with resources should keep detailed breeding records to avoid inbreeding and support long-term improvement.
A well-structured flock should consist of about 70% ewes (50% mature, 15% bred, 20% young, 15% culled) and 30% male sheep. Lambs should make up around 40% of the total flock, which includes both males and females. This ensures a steady supply of market-ready animals.
Market trends play a key role in profitability. Lamb prices tend to drop in September to November, making it an ideal time to purchase sheep for fattening. Selling them between April and July, when prices rise, can maximize profits. The price difference between low and high seasons can reach 4–8 yuan per kilogram. Purchase healthy, strong sheep in the fall, avoiding thin, weak, or pregnant ewes, and sell them in spring and summer to take advantage of better feeding conditions and higher market value.
Feed management is vital for cost efficiency. A balanced diet that includes both grazing and supplementary feeds is necessary. Use locally available straw, such as wheat straw, to create ammoniated feed or silage. During periods of limited forage, extend grazing time. In winter and spring, prepare a full-nutrition feed mix to ensure adequate nourishment.
Daily management is essential for animal health. In cold weather, provide proper shelter, such as greenhouses, while ensuring cooling in summer to prevent heat stress. Regular monitoring and disease prevention are critical.
Preventing diseases is a top priority. Deworming twice a year—once in spring and once in autumn—is recommended. For short-term fattening sheep, deworming at the start of the process is important. Common dewormers include amidazole and avermectin tablets, used together for better results. Administer medication in the morning on an empty stomach, according to weight, and avoid feeding for 6 hours after administration.
Regular disinfection of the farm and equipment, along with vaccination programs as advised by a veterinarian, helps prevent disease outbreaks. Observing the flock daily and addressing any signs of illness promptly is essential for maintaining a healthy herd.
Lijin County Bureau of Animal Husbandry
257400
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