FEEDING AND CARE OF SHEEP 



331 



ing pens they should be examined by an experienced shepherd, and 

 if any evidence of scab, lice, or ticks is found, the flock should be 

 dipped most thoroly. 



With lambs which have received no grain on pasture, the feeding 

 period should last 12 to 14 weeks, depending on their condition and 

 the rapidity with which they fatten. For a 100-day feeding period 

 the gains should be 25 to 30 lbs. per head. This gain added to a lamb 

 weighing originally 55 to 65 lbs. brings it to the size desired by the 



Fig. 92. — Lambs Fattening in a Field of Corn and Soybeans 



Many farmers find it profitable to fatten lambs in the fall on rape, stubble 

 fields, or standing corn. (From Breeder's Gazette.) 



market, for the demand is now for plump lambs weighing only 80 to 

 90 lbs., or even less if from the western ranges. As soon as the lambs 

 are "ripe," or when the back and the region about the tail are well 

 covered with fat, they should be sold, for further gains can not be 

 made at a profit. 



Sheep feeders do, not begin operations at an early hour in winter, 

 preferring not to disturb the animals until after daybreak. Usually 

 grain is first given, followed by hay and water. The trough in which 

 grain is fed should be kept clean at all times, and sufficient space 



