Operating Procedures for the Feeding and Management of Hu Sheep Breeding Rams

From the individual standpoint, a ram's contribution is the same as a ewe's, but from the population standpoint, a ram's contribution is 100—300 times greater than a ewe's. Only first-grade and second-grade rams may be retained as breeding stock. An organism's phenotype = genetics (G) + environment (E), so providing good feeding and management for an excellent ram is extremely important work.

1) Feeding and management techniques during the non-breeding period:     

① Provide appropriate exercise to lift the ram's spirits, strengthen its constitution, improve semen quality, and raise the breeding value of the stud ram. One month before breeding, combined with semen collection, the ram should ideally exercise 2 km per day.    

② During the non-breeding period, feed the ram twice a day, with hay available for free-choice intake. Start the mixed concentrate at 0.4 kg/d and increase it gradually; by the breeding period, feed an adult ram 1—1.5 kg of mixed concentrate per day, with 0.3% sodium bicarbonate added to the feed to increase rumen alkaline reserve.

③ One month before breeding, a growing ram that has reached 40 kg body weight may begin semen collection, 1—2 times per day, collecting for two days and resting one day. An adult ram at 18 months of age may be collected 3—4 times per day, with a 2-hour interval between collections, for three consecutive days, then one day of rest. Conduct regular semen checks and solve any problems promptly.    

④ At this time, deworming, hoof trimming, and immunization should be carried out to prepare for breeding.     

⑤ For rams used for semen collection, satisfy the four reflexes of mounting, erection, thrusting, and ejaculation to establish a good conditioned reflex. Ensure the temperature inside the artificial vagina is 40--42°C during use.    

2) Feeding and management techniques during the breeding period:

① To produce 1 ml of semen, a ram consumes 50 g of protein. During the breeding period, ensure the daily ration contains no less than 100—150 g of crude protein, 1—1.5 kg of green succulent feed, and hay for free-choice intake.    

② During frequent breeding, additionally feed one egg and 50 ml of milk per day to ensure semen quality.

③ Keep the testicles clean and hygienic, and promptly remove dirt and scabs to improve semen quality.   

④ In the late breeding period, lower the feeding standard in good time and increase exercise to prevent the ram from becoming obese.