Characterisation of Shy-feeding and Feeding lambs in the first week in a feedlot

Abstract

Up to 20% of lambs introduced to feedlots are prone to 'Shy-feeding' or inappetence. Factors considered to contribute to the condition of Shy-feeding include: neophobia (environment and concentrated feeds), disease and competition around feeding. However, little is known about the individual characteristics of these animals. This study investigated some individual characteristics associated with shy-feeding, which may provide useful information to enable early identification of vulnerable animals. Forty lambs in a feedlot pen were studied in 3 cohorts (120 lambs total) over 16 months. This study focused on the behaviour of lambs in the first week in the feedlot. Lambs were provided with 2 m2..