Comparative evaluation of Menz and Awassi X Menz crossbred sheep: 2. Reproduction and mature body weight

Abstract

Purebred Menz, first cross (50%) Awassi x Menz, and second cross (75%) Awassi x Menz sheep were bred and reared under common environmental and management conditions. Reproductive data and mature body weights were recorded over a 6-year period between 1982 and 1987. Over all genotypes and years, the average percentage of ewes joined that lambed was 54%; the average percentage of twin births was 4%, and the average number of lambs born per ewe was 0.55%. All of these reproductive parameters varied between mating seasons and between years, but none of them differed significantly between the three genotypes. Average yearling body weights in Menz (27.4 kg) and first cross ewes (28.8 kg) were significantly lower than in the second cross ewes (32.8 kg). Average mature body weights of the 50% and 75% Awassi crossbred ewes were similar (41.4 kg and 41.0 kg respectively), but both were significantly heavier than mature Menz ewes (31.6 kg).