Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic Period on Sheep Breeding

The COVID-19 outbreak experienced worldwide has affected all production areas as well as livestock breeding. This study was aimed at determining the situation of sheep breeders in Ordu province during the COVID-19 outbreak and offering solution suggestions. In the study, data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 72 enterprises registered with the breeding sheep and goat breeders' association in Ordu province in 2023. In the study, it was determined that the breeders were negatively affected by the increase in feed prices (33.3%) during this period. Breeders' reasons for production (88.9%), land use (97.2%), and flock size (88.9%) were unaffected by the epidemic. It was noted that the weaning age of lambs did not change (97.2%) during the epidemic period. The pasture emergence period was not negatively affected during the epidemic period (94.4%). Breeders generally stated that they were not affected by the epidemic period in the use of roughage (84.7%), concentrate feed (83.3%), or vaccination practices (93.1%). Most of the breeders (94.4%) reported that their expectations from animal husbandry did not change after the pandemic period. After the pandemic, it was found that shepherds, fodder support, pasture improvement and health insurance support were more expected (94.4%). Breeders had problems finding a shepherd. In addition, health problems and quarantine practices affected the use of the labor force. Consequently, in order to ensure sustainable sheep production, the expectations and problems of local breeders should be taken into consideration and deficiencies should be eliminated.