Table 3 Reproductive performance and sexual behaviors recorded during the experimental period
Parameter | Definition | Reference |
|---|---|---|
Estrus duration | Period of sexual receptivity and mating characterized by distinct behavioral symptoms of estrus and estimated from the first to last signs of estrus | [41] |
Onset of estrus | Time (in hours) from the vaginal sponge withdrawal to the appearance of estrus signs | [42] |
Conception rate | Percentage of ewes conceived from all inseminated ewes | [43] |
Lambing rate | Number of lambs born/number of ewes inseminated expressed as a percentage | |
Fecundity | Number of lambs born/number of ewes bred, expressed as a percentage | [43] |
Soliciting | The ewe approaches the ram, nuzzles the ram’s body, and tends to stay in the vicinity of and follow the ram | [44] |
Scrotum sniffing | The ewe sniffs the scrotum and anogenital region of the ram | |
Anogenital sniffing | The ewe allows the ram to sniff her tail and genitalia | |
Walking | Walking around |