[Jacob-list] re: grain for sheep

[Jacobflock at aol.com]

Does feeding some grain (even in summer) when plenty of grass is available 
make them (1) healthier, (2) improve quality of fleece?  

A compound question that involves two issues.  On balance, a ewe will 
probably be "healthiest" is it can get its digestible nutrients out of 
pasture and is kept on the "slim" side.  The digestible nutrients of a 
pasture can be checked through local extensions etc.  Another consideration 
is mineral (micro mineral) and vitamin capacity of pasture.  Feeding grain 
when necessary would be preferred over feeding a grain diet.

The quality of fleece issue throws a "watch" item on the table.  Wool fiber 
is influenced by protein; length, diameter, strength and even pounds per 
sheep.  However, if you have a protein source that provides between 80%-120% 
of their requirements, pushing protein will not have a "noticeable" wool 
effect but you will see the effect on the circumference....of the 
ewe....after shearing.  As you know, every secondary (wool) follicle a Jacob 
will ever have in its life is "fixed" at abouyt three months. The development 
of the fetal lamb depends on the protein intake of the mother and after 
lambing the emergence of the wool from melanocyte will depend on protein. 

Bad news good news.  The "fat" ewe will probably have conceiving and birthing 
problewms...the fat ewe may not be "fat"...just fluffy.