[Lactation performance and lamb growth in ghezel breed]

ABSTRACT

To determine Lactation performance and lamb growth of Ghezel breed. Factorial 2x2. Twenty uniparous Ghezel ewes [4-5 year-old]. During the suckling period [15 weeks] milk was collected daily by a combined lamb-suckling and hand milking from weaning to the end of lactation. Average lactation length and total milk yield were 163.5+/- 23.2 days and 145.1 +/- 23.2 kg, respectively. Daily milk yield during the suckling and post weaning periods averaged 1210 +/- 140 g and 320 +/- 70 g, respectively. Peak of production was achieved at the second week of lactation and declined gradually thereafter, with an immediate sudden drop following weaning. The mothers of suckling ram lambs produced more milk compared to those suckling ewe lambs. Milk production and lactation length were higher in five years old ewes than the 4 years old ewes [P<0.05]. It seems that Ghezel ewes have a good potential for milk production. Moreover, because of the favorable Lactation of the mothers their lamb growth is satisfactory