Levels and Sources of Protein in Rations for Pregnant Ewes

The results of four experiments are presented. There were no consistent differences in lamb production from ewes fed rations approximately equal in total digestible nutrients but which varied from 6.8 to 11.0 percent total protein. There were no apparent differences in production between ewes fed linseed meal or dried skimmilk as a protein supplement to a grass hay, shelled corn ration.Pregnant Shropshire ewes averaging 135 pounds in body weight remained in positive nitrogen balance, made satisfactory gains and gave birth to thrifty lambs when fed an average of 0.10 pound digestible protein per ewe daily. No improvement in utilization of protein or production was noted from the addition of 0.10 percent DL methionine.Further work is needed relative to the protein requirements of pregnant ewes.