QUESTIONS 235 



The method of handling the ram also has an influence on the num- 

 ber he will serve. If he is allowed with the flock a short time each 

 day his energy will be conserved to such an extent that he will get 

 more ewes in lamb than if he were allowed with them all the time. 



FIG. 162. Smearing paint on ram in order to mark ewes when mating. 



The above statement may not hold for a very nervous ram. A vigor- 

 ous ram from one to four years of age is sufficient for 35 to 50 ewes 

 if allowed to run with them all the time; if allowed with them for a 

 short time each day he is sufficient for 50 to 75 ewes. 



QUESTIONS 



1. Discuss the necessity of having the ewes in a gaining condition in breed- 



ing season. 



2. How would you condition the ewes? 



3. What is the advantage of keeping the ewes on rather scant rations 



for a few days directly after they are mated? 



4. Outline a good method of keeping records on the ewes at mating time. 

 *5. Discuss the condition of the ram at breeding time. 



6. When is it advisable to turn the ram in with the ewes at breeding time 



and let him go without any special attention? When is it not 

 advisable? 



7. Would you give the ram grain during the breeding season? Why? 



8. What is a "teaser"? 



9. Is it possible to have the ram mark the ewes at the time of service? 



10. How many ewes will a ram serve in one season? 



11. Upon what factor may this depend? 



