Study of the oestrous cycle and reproductive behaviour in crossbred ewes bred in the Peruvian Andes

Abstract

Sheep in Peru is decreasing in population and is also losing importance as a survival alternative in the rural areas of the Sierra with the highest poverty (45.7%). Sheep in the rural areas of the Sierra serve as a source of economic reserve for the self-consumption livestock farmer. The objective was: to know the reproductive behaviour and oestrous cycle in crossbred ewes (Criollas x Corriedale), bred in the Peruvian Andes. Methodology, the level of research was descriptive and observational and, type of applied research, the data came from direct observation, which allowed us to analyse and use statistical procedures and/or techniques. Sampling was non-probabilistic and by convenience. Results: 93% of oestrus was observed in March and a decrease of 21% in June. With respect to the oestrus cycle, ewes were observed from zero (0) to seven (7) oestrus cycles with an average of 17 days between the first and subsequent oestrus. 53.1% of the ewes did not show reproductive seasonality. 56.3% of the ewes show oestrus in the afternoon hours and 43.7% in the morning hours. Conclusion, the crossbred ewes (creole x corriedale) show a reproductive seasonality in 50% of the population, with an oestrus cycle of 17 days and without a significant effect of the time of oestrus during the day