What is the main goal of supplementary feeding in sheep?

The main goal of supplementary feeding in sheep is to provide additional nutrients when pasture is insufficient. This practice becomes particularly important during periods when the quality or availability of grazing pasture does not meet the nutritional needs of the sheep. Factors such as seasonal changes, drought, or overgrazing can lead to a deficit of essential nutrients in the diet.

Supplementary feeding helps to ensure that sheep maintain optimal health, growth rates, and reproductive performance. It allows producers to manage the nutritional requirements of their flock effectively, thus supporting the overall productivity and wellbeing of the sheep. By addressing nutrient deficiencies, farmers can improve the body condition of ewes, enhance lamb growth, and ultimately achieve better economic outcomes in sheep production.