The effect of length of use of teaser rams prior to mating and individual liveweight on the reproductive performance of ewe hoggets

Abstract

Heavier hoggets at breeding are more likely to be mated during the first 17 days of breeding and to be twin-bearing. While teasing for just 8 days increased the numbers mated in the first 17 days of breeding it did not increase the numbers of hoggets pregnant to that period. In contrast, teasing for 17 days did increase the numbers pregnant to the first 17 days of breeding and also increased the overall scanning percentage. It is recommended that farmers use a 17-day period of teasing before the breeding of ewe hoggets.