Effect of feed blocks on improving milk yield and lambs weight of Iraqi Awassi sheep and increasing milk and meat produced for consumers: Extension trial

Abstract

This study was conducted to enhance the sheep owners (producers) skills related to the influence of feed blocks on milk yield and lambs weight of Iraqi Awassi sheep and increasing their demandsfor consumers. This study was carried out in four Iraqi governorates using thirty two Awassi ewes that equally divided into four governorates (8 ewes/ governorate). Four of these ewes were fed on feed in addition to their routine ration of barley grains and green forage available. The control ewes were fed on routine available ration only. Thirty six Awassi post-weaning lambs were equally divided into four governorattes (9 lambs/ governorate). Five of these lambs were fed on feed blocks in addition to their routine diet of green forage. The control four lambs were fed on routine ration only.The feed blocks were introduced to the ewes and lambs post-partum and post-weaning respectiely, for 75 days. milk yield, increasing percentage of milk yield and lambs weights were increased significantly and progressively in feed blocks group during the whole stages as compared with control group ia all governorates.