The relative preference of Merino sheep for a number of pelleted Karoo bush species

Abstract

The relative preference of ten common Karoo bush species, in pellet form, was determined by offering the pellets to Merino ewes in random fashion in a small paddock. The nature of visits, i.e. sniffing, tasting or feeding was noted, and the quantity of pellets consumed was determined each day. The results showed that Aster muricatus und Plinthus karooicus were most preferred; Eriocephalus spinescens and Pentzia incana were somewhat less preferred. No significant differences in preference existed in respect of the remaining six species: Salsola nigrescens, Phymaspermum parvifolium, Ruschia vulnerans, Eriocephalus glaber, Pteronia glauca and Chrysocoma tenuifolia. The latter species were, however, better eaten in the absence of the four more preferred species. Chrysocoma tenuifolia was apparently least acceptable to the sheep under all conditions. The indications are that the presence or absence of more acceptable species determines the order of preference of less preferred species.

Keywords: veld|selective grazing|food|sheep|pelleted compound feeds|bushes|Karoo|pellets|preferences|merino sheep|fodders|plants|preferred diets