Comparative On-Farm Welfare Assessment of Sheep in Extensive, Semi-Extensive, and Semi-Intensive Systems.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Veterinary Medicine
• Agricultural Systems

Background:

• Sheep welfare is influenced by production systems, breeds, and environment.
• Assessing animal welfare is crucial for sustainable sheep farming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of extensive, semi-extensive, and semi-intensive sheep production systems on animal welfare in Serbia.
• To identify specific welfare indicators affected by different farming methods.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Animal Welfare Indicators Network (AWIN) Welfare Protocol to assess 30 Serbian sheep farms.
• Categorized welfare indicators into resource-based, management-based, and animal-based metrics.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in space allowance were found across production systems.
• Significant variations in management practices were observed, impacting welfare.
• Painful mutilations were a concern in extensive farms; tail docking and poorer fleece cleanliness were higher in semi-extensive and semi-intensive systems.

Conclusions:

• Management practices, particularly painful mutilations and tail docking, are critical welfare issues.
• Sustainable sheep welfare necessitates an integrated approach combining genetics, housing, and management.
• Addressing the root causes of poor welfare is essential for improving standards.