What is the main goal of supplementary feeding in sheep?

Supplementary feeding serves the primary goal of providing additional nutrients to sheep when the pasture is insufficient, which is especially critical during times of low forage availability, such as winter or drought conditions. The nutrient requirements of sheep can vary depending on their stage of production, whether they are pregnant, lactating, or growing. In situations where pasture cannot meet these requirements due to poor growth, low quality, or other environmental factors, supplementary feeding becomes essential.

This practice ensures that the sheep maintain optimal health, production levels, and overall well-being. By delivering the necessary nutrients through feeds, it also helps in maintaining body condition, promoting healthy lamb growth, and supporting the reproductive performance of breeding ewes.

While reducing grazing pressure, increasing lambing rates, or improving wool texture can be beneficial outcomes of good sheep management, they are not the main goals of supplementary feeding. The focus is primarily on ensuring that sheep receive the adequate nutrition needed to thrive when dietary resources are limited.