SHEEP RAISING. 



17 



If the ewe lambs are bred it will cause them to come in heat later 

 and later each season, thus making a crop of lambs which is very unde- 

 sirable, especially in sections in which the stomach worm is prevalent. 

 The vitality of the ewe will also be prematurely sapped by breeding too 

 young, thereby rendering her much less valuable at maturity. 



Care and Management of the Breeding Flock. 



The breeding flock demands close attention, yet not more than any 

 other class of breeding animals should have for the most satisfactory 

 results. Regular care, uniform feeding, abundant exercise, and succu- 

 lent feeds are essential for success. Frequent examinations are advis- 

 able to determine if any of the diseases peculiar to sheep are in evi- 

 dence. Sheep are not heavy feeders, but they should receive their 



FIG. 6. A flock of ewes on a farm in the Piedmont section. 



rations regularly, especially when they do not have access to pas- 

 ture. During the summer months after the lambs are weaned, if pas- 

 ture can be provided little else need be given until just prior to the 

 breeding season, when the ewes should be fed grain somewhat heavier 

 than usual. If ewes are gaining in flesh steadily during the breeding 

 season they conceive more readily and have a better opportunity to care 

 for the fretus through the extra flesh which they carry. After the breed- 

 ing season is over pastures will soon begin to deteriorate. If corn silage 

 can be had it will be valuable for keeping the ewes in that vigorous con- 

 dition which fits them for the lambing season. Dry feeds at this time 

 are undesirable, especially if they are inclined to be too carbonaceous 

 in character. 



