Behavior of Goats and Sheep on an Eroded Hill Country Pasture in Winter

The behaviour of cashmere-producing does was compared with that of Romney ewes on an area of surface erosion in pasture-dominated hill country during winter. Five ewes and 5 does were monitored. Each group was observed for 4 days, during June-July, from dawn to dusk. A fixed, remote video camera was used to record the animals' behaviour. Tapes were later analysed, noting animal activity, position and time. Bwes spent 13% of their day on the eroded surfaces compared to 2% for the does, Does were observed on the erosion mainly in the afternoon, whereas the ewes were present at all stages of the day. Grazing was the main activity for both ewes and does. There was little evidence of erosion causing behavioural traits of either does or ewes during this winter period.