INFLUENCE of GESTAGENIZATION PROCEDURE on the EWE REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE

Abstract

The effect of treatment of Ascanian Merino ewe with progesterone (2.5 or 5.0 mg per animal) before beginning of mating period on following display of heat and results of insemination campaign were investigated. Hormone injection improved the ewe ability to conceive at the time of the first showed heat, increased in quantity of animal that displayed heat, fertility and fecundity, but non-significantly reduced in prolificacy. Taking into account the current prices for hormone and the number of additionally received lambs the method is recommended for practical implementation.