Lambs performance and carcass traits in different production systems

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the animal performance and carcasses characteristics of Suffolk lambs in four different production systems: (1) lambs weaned at 40 days of age in pasture of ryegrass until slaughter; (2) lambs without weaning, in the same ryegrass pasture until slaughter; (3) lambs in ryegrass pasture without weaning, supplemented in creep feeding in 1% BW at 40 days of age, until slaughter and (4) lambs weaned at 40 days age and feedlot, feeding corn silage and ad libitum concentrate, until slaughter. The lambs were slaughter with 32 kg of individual body weight. Weaned lambs in ryegrass pasture showed lower (P<0.05) average daily weight gain, higher slaughter age and lower carcasses weights and dressing-out percentages compared to others systems. This system had produced (P<0.05) lower carcass conformation and fat thickness. The lambs finishing systems without weaning presented the best results in performance, body condition and carcass quality showing the importance of the presence of the mother and the intake of the milk to the lambs finished in pasture. The supplement in creep feeding, on 1% of body weight, did not increase the weight gain of these lambs, and no change the carcass characteristics. Production systems without weaning lambs show a good alternative for meat sheep producers, considering the performance of animals, the quantity and quality of carcass. Production systems without weaning lambs should be recommended to producers of sheep that have areas of grass with high forage mass availability of good quality.