MANAGEMENT OF LIVESTOCK- SHEEP MANAGEMENT

CONTENT

1. Introduction to Sheep Management
2. Breeds of Sheep
3. Sheep Management Practices

Introduction to Sheep Management

Sheep belong to the genus Ovidae which is the domesticated species. Sheep where first domesticated in Asia and gradually extended to all parts of the world.

Within Africa, sheep are important in Kenya, Mali, Ethiopia, Tanzania and northern Nigeria.

Breeds of Sheep

1. Ouda/Uda
2. Merino
3. Y’ankassa
4. Balami
5. Dorset horn
6. Lohi
7. Nellore
8. West African Dwarf sheep

Sheep Management Practices

Housing

Housing in sheep rearing is similar to that obtained in goats keeping.

1. The house should be made of concrete, the roof of asbestos or iron sheets and floor of concrete
2. The gates should be made of iron bars and barded wires
3. Bedding of straws or wood shavings should be provided
4. Provider racks for feeding sheep
5. The house should be well ventilated

Feeding of Sheep

1. They can be raised entirely on roughages like grasses and legumes
2. Feed supplements like grains , concentrates, hay and silage are also essential
3. Feed additives like mineral salts and vitamins are also supplied to them.