Sheep Farming and Biodiversity (5cr)

Objective

I assess flock management practices from the perspective of conventional and organic production as well as animal health. I describe differences between sheep breeds and genetic diversity. I understand the basics of sheep feeding and evaluate the importance of grazing.

Content

Annual cycle of sheep farming Buildings and management practices Sheep Breeds and Genetic Diversity Planning of indoor feeding and grazing Health care Sheep as managers of biodiversity sites

Qualifications

Basic knowledge of animal physiology, feeding and genetics.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

I recognize key concepts of conventional and organic sheep farming and I list main differences between sheep breeds. I calculate feed rations for the flock under guidance and I describe grazing at the farm level.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

I describe characteristics of conventional and organic sheep production and I identify the significance of different breeds in production. I calculate feeding suitable for the annual cycle of the flock, considering the importance of grazing.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

I illustrate the special features of sheep farming, considering breed-specific differences and animal welfare. I design an appropriate feeding and grazing strategy for the flock.