Effects of double decking and space allowance on the performance and behavior of feeder lambs

A 2 X 2 factorial experiment was conducted using growing lambs to compare single-level vs double-decked pens and high (.32 m2/lamb) vs low (.48 m2/lamb) densities. Three replicates of each treatment combination were involved using 30 lambs/pen. In the double-decked pens, an upper deck located over the rear section of the lower level provided one-third of the total floor area. Feed and water were provided on the lower level only and lambs could move freely between levels by means of a slatted ramp. All floors were of expanded metal. Use of the various areas of the pens was determined during a 24-h observation and by a videotape recording of the double-decked pens during the daylight hours. Fleece contamination was determined by visual observation and standard wool testing procedures. Gain was determined over the 8-wk period of each replicate. The high density treatment resulted in 1.5 kg/lamb (10%) less gain (P less than .01) and, in the case of double-decked pens, different patterns of space utilization compared with the low density treatment. Lambs in the low density pens were able to move more successfully from resting areas to the feeding area in the afternoon (P less than .01). The double-decked system did not significantly affect weight gain, but resulted in dirtier fleeces (P less than .01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)