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An evaluation of feedblocks as a means of providing supplementary nutrients to ewes grazing upland/hill pastures

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 September 2010

M. J. Ducker ,
P. T. Kendall ,
R. G. Hemingway  and
T. H. McClelland
M. J. Ducker
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Husbandry, Glasgow University Veterinary School, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH
P. T. Kendall
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Husbandry, Glasgow University Veterinary School, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH
R. G. Hemingway
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Husbandry, Glasgow University Veterinary School, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH
T. H. McClelland
Affiliation:
Hill Farming Department, West of Scotland Agricultural College, Beechwood, Stirling FK8 2AE
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Abstract

A series of trials was conducted to measure the extent of individual variation in feedblock intake for ewes on upland/hill farms. From 15 flocks on nine farms 4284 ewes were selected with a range of environmental conditions and levels of performance. Ewes were given either Rumevite, Norbloc or Wintawell feedblocks containing chromic oxide. Faecal grab samples were taken per rectum from individual ewes and analysed for their chromium content to obtain estimates of feedblock consumption.

The results showed that provision of feedblocks does not ensure a uniform intake of supplementary nutrients by sheep in upland/hill situations. On average, 19% of the 2931 ewes sampled had not eaten the feedblock on offer. The proportion of ewes not consuming feedblock varied from flock to flock (0 to 67%). The coefficient of variation of faecal chromium concentrations varied between flocks (46 to 231%). The reasons for the large variation in intakes observed are discussed. Feedblock intake was significantly affected by the grazing area per ewe (P<0·01) and the age of ewes (P<0·05 to P< 0·001).

Type
Research Article
Information
Animal Production , Volume 33 , Issue 1 , August 1981 , pp. 51 - 57
Copyright
Copyright © British Society of Animal Science 1981

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References

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