ABSTRACT
Studies on the long-term productive potential of rangelands and range animals are essential to recommending suitable management practices to optimize sheep production without degrading rangeland resources. The present study was undertaken to compare the performance of the Naeemi, Nigdi and Erbi breeds under Kuwait’s rangeland conditions. The major performance parameters, studied over five years, were lambing percentage, birth weight and growth rate of lambs. The response of ewes and lambs to continuous and rotational grazing systems was also studied along with the need for feed supplements at different times of year.
Lambing percentages were higher in Naeemi and Nigdi than in Erbi ewes. The incidence of twinning in all three breeds was low. The mean birth weight ranged from 4.22 to 4.51 kg. Erbi lambs were heavier than Naeemi and Nigdi, but the differences were not significant. Lamb survival up to the weaning age (3 months) was high in all three breeds, with a mean value of 95% over the five-year study period.
The duration of seasonal grazing ranged from 60 to 195 days depending on the vegetation growth. The stocking rate (ha/sheep/season) ranged from 3.4 to 11.1. No significant differences were observed in animal response to the continuous and rotational grazing systems. Despite Kuwait’s aridity and harsh climate, all three breeds of local sheep showed a potential for sustained production.
