The high nutritional value of mutton aligns with the global trend of increasing protein intake while reducing fat consumption. Mutton is not only rich in nutrients but also comes from sheep, which are highly efficient herbivores that require less grain compared to other livestock. This makes them well-suited to national conditions and public opinion. Black mutton goats, in particular, offer low investment and quick returns, especially in regions like Lushan Mountain. These goats can effectively utilize grasslands and farmland forage, making them a sustainable choice for farmers.
Traditional mountain sheep farming has often relied on grazing, but overgrazing has led to ecological damage in some areas. Today, house-based sheep farming has become a popular alternative, offering better control and efficiency. When setting up a sheep farm, it's essential to plan based on the number of animals, development scale, financial resources, and mechanization level. The location should be elevated, well-drained, and have good ventilation and sunlight. A sheep house should be designed with a width of 4–6 meters, height of 2–3 meters, and an area of 1.2–1.5 square meters per sheep, along with a nearby playground.
The floor of the sheep house should be constructed with wooden or bamboo slats spaced 1–1.5 cm apart to allow waste to fall through. Sheep pens should be divided into sections for rams, ewes, lambs, and fattening sheep, each with proper feeding and watering facilities. A straw rack against the wall, about 1 meter high with a 15 cm gap, helps keep the area clean. Feeding troughs should be made of cement or wood, with a width of 25 cm, depth of 10–15 cm, and an arc-shaped bottom. Automatic water drinkers are recommended, placed every 3 meters.
A medicine bath should be built near the pen. It should be a narrow pool, at least 1 meter deep, with a bottom width of 30–60 cm and a mouth width of 60–80 cm. The entrance should be ramped for easy access, and the exit should have steps to help the sheep return the medication to the pool.
Before purchasing sheep, it’s important to analyze local conditions such as agricultural production, feed availability, and geographical factors. Different breeds suit different climates—goats are ideal for southern regions, while sheep are better suited for colder northern areas. Farmers should choose the right breed based on their financial situation and ensure they can afford both purchase and maintenance.
The best time to introduce sheep is during spring or autumn, when temperatures are moderate. Summer transport is less favorable due to heat and rain, though special arrangements can be made if necessary. If the distance is short, seasonality may not be a major concern.
Reducing feeding costs is crucial for large-scale sheep farming. Sheep grow slowly and have lower productivity than pigs or poultry, so optimizing feed use is key. In areas where high-quality feed is expensive, using grass-fed systems or silage technology can lower costs. Planting high-quality forage grasses and using advanced processing techniques like fermentation, ammoniation, and alkalinization can improve low-quality straw utilization and reduce expenses.
Selecting high-quality breeds is also vital. Larger breeds with fast growth, good meat quality, and strong adaptability are preferred. The Lushan black goat is an excellent example, offering multiple advantages.
Adjusting lambing seasons can increase survival rates. By controlling breeding times, farmers can avoid harsh weather and improve lamb health. Regular immunizations and disinfection are essential to prevent diseases. Cleaning the barns, using bleaching powder, and administering anthelmintic drugs during spring and autumn help maintain hygiene.
Maintaining an appropriate scale is important for profitability. Small farms should aim for at least 20 animals, while larger operations may target 40–50. Specialized households raising lambs should keep numbers between 100–150 for optimal management.
Grouping sheep according to purpose, age, and stage of development ensures better nutrition and reduces stress. Mixing different groups can lead to poor growth and lower productivity.
High-bed sheepfolds with slatted floors improve hygiene by allowing waste to drop through, reducing disease risk. The floor should be 30–50 cm above ground, with slats spaced 3 cm apart. In winter, a wooden bed can be added for warmth.
Lamb fattening focuses on maximizing weight gain and feed efficiency. Providing adequate green feed and mineral supplements is essential. Farmers can use mineral bricks and mix concentrates with corn, soybean meal, and other ingredients to create a balanced diet.
d-mannose food grade supplement,Pure d-mannose,3458-28-4,d-mannose
Jiangxi Chengzhi Bioengineering Co., Ltd , https://www.chengzhi-bio.com