Abstract
This study evaluated the reproductive outcomes of estrus synchronization in Lacaune ewes during the anestrous season. A total of 318 ewes were treated with intravaginal sponges containing 60 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for 14 days, followed by an injection of 250 IU of lyophilized pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) (Gonaser, HIPRA). The first artificial insemination was carried out 48 hours after sponge removal, followed by a second insemination approximately 5 hours later. The overall conception rate was 81.1%, with a biological prolificacy of 1.72 lambs per lambed ewe. Multiple pregnancies accounted for 64.5% of gestations. The abortion rate was 3.7%. Method of mating significantly influenced fertility and prolificacy, while ewe age had no notable effect. The results demonstrate that applying an appropriate hormonal protocol enables highly effective breeding of Lacaune ewes during the anestrous season.
Keywords: Lacaune ewes, estrus synchronization, anestrous season, artificial insemination, prolificacy, reproductive performance