THE EFFECT OF REPRODUCTIVE SYNCHRONIZATION ON LAMBING EFFICIENCY AND MILK YIELDS IN SHEEP FARMING SYSTEMS IN THE BALKANS

Improving productivity in semi-intensive sheep farming systems is crucial for maximizing farm efficiency and profitability, especially in regions with seasonal reproductive challenges. Estrus synchronization has emerged as a promising approach to addressing these challenges and boosting overall farm output. This study examines the effects of estrus synchronization on lambing rate per ewe and milk yield, focusing on experimental and control groups in two regions of Macedonia. Using hormonal induction (FGA + PMSG) to facilitate out- of-season lambing, experimental farms achieved an average of 3.25 lambs per ewe over two years, compared to just 2.12 lambs in the control groups. Milk production remained stable and consistent between the two groups, demonstrating that enhanced lamb production can be achieved without compromising milk yields. Furthermore, a comprehensive revenue analysis revealed a 36% increase in total income for experimental farms, underscoring the significant economic potential of this technique. These results suggest that estrus synchronization offers a viable method to optimize both lamb production and milk yields, leading to improved profitability in semi-intensive sheep farming systems.