The Influence of Liveweight on Group Size and Mating Efficiency in a Ewe Flock in an Arid Grazing Environment.

Abstract

Group size, liveweight and pasture production were recorded for three years in a flock of 320 Merino ewes grazed under extensive management on degraded Muiga (Acacia aneura) - short grass and halophyte communities at Meekatharra, Western Australia. Lower pasture production induced lower liveweights which were strongly correlated to reduced group size. It is suggested that lower liveweights and increased numbers of groups reduced ewe-ram contact and mating efficiency in the flock.