Scrotal circumference measurements in purebred Dorset, Hampshire and Suffolk lamb and yearling rams
W B Ley1, D J Sprecher, P Lessard
1Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Large Animal Clinical Science Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA.
Abstract:
Purebred Suffolk, Hampshire and Dorset lamb and yearling rams (n=753), underwent performance testing from 1986 to 1989. Scrotal circumference, birth date and entry weight were recorded for each ram entering the test station. Mean age in days at entry, weight (lbs), and scrotal circumference (SC; cm) were greatest for the Hampshire rams. For all rams combined (Dorset, Hampshire and Suffolk), the mean SC by month of age revealed rapid growth from 2 to 6 mo, with a 3- to 6-mo mean SC significantly (P0.05) for mean SC measurement and a less rapid increase in SC diameter. Between 12 and 13 mo a significant increase (P
