Lambing and neonatal behaviour of Djallonke x Sahel crossbred sheep. 1. Maternal behaviour

Abstract

Observations were made oflhe behaviour of 52 ewes during lambing. The parameters recorded were duration and distance of isolation of dam from the main flock, grooming and rejection of lambs by their dams. The effects of age and parity of dam and birth weight and sex of lamb on these behavioural characteristics were analysed. Age and parity of dam and birth weight and sex of lamb significantly (P< 0.01) influenced duration and distance of isolation and duration of grooming. These parameters, however, did not significantly (P>0.05) influence rejection.