EWES
The reproduction rate of Boergoats is one of the most beneficial characteristics for the meat producer. Twin births and lambing percentages of 180 – 200% are common. There are various factors which affect the reproduction percentage of the ewe:
season,
age,
body mass and
nutrition.
The Boergoat ewe displays seasonal estrus with a peak in April/May (southern hemisphere autumn) and a trough from October to January (southern hemisphere midsummer). With high nutrition levels, ewes reach puberty at an age of six months. However, pregnancies at this young age can disrupt growth and permanently rein in future performance. A rule of thumb dictates that young ewes should not be mated before reaching two thirds the flock’s average adult body mass. Good grazing and pasture condition go hand in hand with animal production (lambing percentages and milk production). As with any ruminant, nutrition levels have a noticeable impact on the reproduction levels of Boergoats.