Horário do inicio do pastejo como mecanismo de controle de verminose em ovinos

Abstract

Ovine farming in the Brazilian Northeast has gained prominence due to the animals' rusticity and the growing demand for quality meat. This study aimed to evaluate whether the time of grazing initiation affects the levels of gastrointestinal nematode infestation and the body condition of sheep in a semi-intensive production system. The experiment was conducted with eight Santa Inês crossbred ewes, allocated into two release groups: at 7 AM and at 11 AM, from February to April 2025. The experimental design was completely randomized, with two treatments (release times), four repetitions (ewes), and three evaluations over time (days), characterizing a repeated measures model. Analyses included: fecal egg count (FEC), body condition score (BCS), and ocular mucous membrane coloration (Famacha®). Ewes released at 11 AM showed a significantly superior BCS (p = 0.0044), possibly due to lower intake of infective larvae and prior provision of pasture in the feeder. Famacha® evaluation indicated lower anemia severity in this group, although without a statistically significant difference. FEC was low in both treatments, with a more pronounced reduction trend in the 11 AM group. It is concluded that later grazing, combined with strategic feed provision, can contribute to reducing parasitic exposure and improving body condition, representing a viable alternative in the sanitary management of sheep.