Effect of Pen Size on Behaviour of Ewes

Abstract

Sheep farming is an important sector of the Malaysian livestock industry, primarily because of the rising demand for mutton and lamb due to changes in dietary preferences and cultural heritage. However, a large number of Malaysian small-scale farmers do not have formal education on sheep farming and instead rely on traditional methods. As a result, sheep may experience more stress due to inefficient management techniques like overcrowded pens or inadequate feeding spaces. Sheep exhibit adaptive and natural behaviours including rumination, self-grooming, lying and feeding behaviour. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the differences in the behaviour of ewes in relation to pen size, at Amen Livestock Trade Sdn. Bhd. in Shah Alam.