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Winter is a challenging time for sheep, especially in northern China, where the temperature fluctuates greatly between day and night. This leads to increased heat loss in the sheep's bodies, and the grass available during this season is often dry and low in nutritional value. Most ewes are pregnant during this period, and they enter their first wintering phase. As a result, their nutritional needs increase significantly. If feeding management is not properly handled, sheep may experience weight loss, which can negatively affect their health and productivity.
To ensure safe wintering for the flock, the following measures should be taken:
1. **Proper Grouping Before Winter**: Before entering winter, it's important to sort the sheep based on age, sex, and physical condition. Grouping similar-sized animals together helps manage them more effectively. Weaker sheep should be kept closer to the shelter, while stronger ones can graze farther away. During the fall, any sick, thin, old, or unproductive sheep should be culled to reduce the burden on resources.
2. **Maintain Warmth and Shelter**: Sheep require more energy to stay warm during winter. Inspect and repair all shelters to ensure they are well-insulated, dry, and free from drafts. Hang curtains at entrances and vents to block cold winds and prevent heat loss.
3. **Controlled Grazing**: In mild weather, grazing should be done daily, especially in early winter when some vegetation is still available. Choose sheltered areas with good access to water and avoid high winds. Sheep should graze in the morning and return before the wind picks up. When snow increases or temperatures drop, grazing should be limited, and exercise should be minimized, particularly for older or weaker animals.
4. **Supplementary Feeding**: Relying solely on pasture is not enough in winter. Supplemental feeding should begin in late November, as nutritional deficiencies start to appear. A combination of grazing and feeding is ideal—half the day grazing, half the day feeding. Provide hay, silage, or grain-based feeds. An adult sheep should receive 0.5–1 kg of hay or 1–2 kg of silage per day. For smaller flocks, feed can be placed in baskets; for larger groups, straw can be used to hang feed at an appropriate height. Include minerals and vitamins, especially for pregnant ewes, rams, and lambs.
5. **Ensure Clean and Warm Water**: Access to clean, warm water is essential. Water should be provided twice daily, around 2 p.m. and in the evening, with a temperature of about 25°C. Avoid cold or icy water, which can cause digestive issues.
6. **Health and Disease Prevention**: Regular cleaning and disinfection of the sheep house are crucial. Weekly disinfection helps prevent disease outbreaks. During winter, sheep are more susceptible to illness due to weakened immunity. Vaccinations and deworming should be carried out in late fall and early winter. Insecticides like trichlorphon and sulfur dichlorodichlorophenol can help control parasites.
7. **Protect Pregnant Ewes**: Most ewes are pregnant during winter, so extra care is needed. Prevent overcrowding and collisions, and avoid steep or icy terrain during grazing. Keep the flock calm and move them slowly to reduce stress and ensure safe delivery.
By implementing these strategies, farmers can better support their sheep through the harsh winter months, ensuring their health, survival, and productivity.