The role of behavior in sheep production: A review of research

Abstract

Sheep production systems vary throughout the world, but many of the limitations and problems of production are universal. The behavior of sheep may be a limiting factor in some situations, while in others behavior facilitates the operation. The allocation of spatial resources, grazing behavior and feeding behavior in confinement are important for sheep to maintain themselves and grow efficiently. As sheep are social animals, sexual and maternal behavior must be viewed in a group context to ensure the highest reproductive rate and offspring survival. A review of recent literature on sheep behavior illustrates how production systems and behavior are intertwined.