Lamb supplementation is a feeding strategy designed to support lambs in areas where ewes are concentrated. The primary goals of this practice are to accelerate lamb growth, reduce size disparities among lambs born at different times, and lay a solid foundation for better fattening results, especially by shortening the finishing period. Additionally, it helps decrease the frequency with which lambs nibble on ewes, thereby extending the peak lactation period for the ewes.
The first step involves identifying the lambs that should be supplemented. This includes lambs scheduled for weaning at two months old, those raised for breeding in a three-year cycle, lambs born in winter, purebred lambs, twins or triplets, and lambs born after the main lambing season.
Next, it's time to start the feeding process. Larger breeds typically begin supplementation between 15 to 21 days of age. If lambing occurs over an extended period, group feeding can be used. For smaller flocks, farmers may start when they notice lambs showing interest in feed, even as early as 10 days old.
When selecting feed ingredients, high-quality hay or grass is ideal as roughage. Lambs can be allowed to graze freely using a straw rack or hanging feeder. For concentrates, corn, soybean meal, and bran are commonly used. Before one month of age, whole or crushed corn is recommended, while later, whole grains are more suitable. Adjust feed quantities based on the season—early spring might require more alfalfa-based hay, while late spring may focus more on green grass with minimal hay.
To maintain a protein level of at least 15%, adding some soybean cake is essential. Two common feed formulas are often used:
1. In areas without processing facilities: 60% corn, 20% oats or barley, 10% bran, and 10% soybean meal. For every 10 kg of mix, add 0.4 g of chlortetracycline or oxytetracycline, a small amount of bone meal, and mix the grains.
2. In areas with processing capabilities: 20% corn, 10% bran, 20% oats or barley, 10% soybean meal, 10% bone meal, and 30% molasses. Again, 0.4 g of antibiotic per 10 kg of concentrate is added. These ingredients are mixed into pellets with a diameter of 0.4–0.6 cm.
Finally, proper feeding and management are crucial. Stalls should be prepared with about 0.15 square meters per lamb. The entrance and exit should be wide enough (around 20 cm) and high (about 40 cm) to prevent crowding. Clean and disinfect the feeding area regularly.
During the initial phase, place small amounts of corn and soybean meal in the trough daily, replacing them regardless of whether the lambs eat them. Once they get used to eating, feed them consistently. The average daily intake starts at 40–50 grams and increases to 300–350 grams later. Total feed consumption should reach around 8–10 kg. Feed once a day, allowing 30 minutes for eating, preferably in the morning or evening when there is good light. If lambs refuse certain feed, consider changing the type.
Baby Squid,Baby Octopus,Poulp Squid,Squid Tube
GOLD STAR FISHERY ZHOUSHAN CO.,LTD. , https://www.goldstar-aquatic.com