Post-weaning growth and development of Nigerian Dwarf sheep

Studies aimed at defining the growth pattern and the mature body weight of Nigerian Dwarf sheep were conducted using 18 ewe lambs and 13 ram lambs fed ad lib. on roughages and concentrates from weaning to maturity. Computer generated quadratic growth curves showed that the mature body weight of ewes is about 33 kg attained between 30 and 36 months of age while that the rams is about 42 kg attained between 27 and 30 months of age. Body measurements at maturity were also determined.