DIFFERENCES IN EWE AND WETHER BEHAVIOR WHEN BONDED TO CATTLE

Under mixed stocking, both intra- and inter-species associations exist , Sheep normally do not associate with cattle when the two species are grazed together. However, sheep can be made to consistently stay clos e to (bond) and follow cattle if forced in close association with catt le at an early age for a period of time. The cohesiveness of this inte r-species association under free-ranging conditions varies due to many factors, including sheep gender, Bonded wethers stay nearer to cattle than do bonded ewes. However, the distance of separation between bond ed sheep groups and cattle groups during grazing increases over time, Though the mechanism(s) for these phenomena are not presently understo od, keeping a few bonded wethers with bonded ewes may enhance the esta blishment and maintenance of consistently coherent range flerds (flock s + herds).