Surveillance and management of estrous cycle in Awassi and Lacaune ewes during out of season

The purpose of this study was to increase fertility in sheep by applying modern biotechnology: induction and synchronization of estrous in non- breeding season. The ewes were divided into 3 equal batches. In all batches intravaginal sponge (Veramix/Intervet) containing 60 mg of MPA was left in the vagina for 14 days. Immediately after removal of the sponge an injections of prostaglandin (Dinolytic/Pfizer) at the dose of 12.5 mg (2,5ml)/animal was administered in batch II. Batch III received two injections: PMSG hormone (Folligon/Intervet) at the dose of 500 IU/animal and prostaglandin (Dinolytic/Pfizer) at the dose of 12.5 mg (2,5 ml)/animal. The research focused on several directions: assessment of estrous manifestation; occurrence of estrous interval after completion of hormonal therapy; duration of estrous; appreciation of gestation after the first and second estrous clinically manifested; percentage of fecundity. From the results obtained it follows that induction and synchronization of estrous in non-breeding season showed economic advantages by shortening the time needed for the installation of gestation, the possibility of lambing distribution, preparation and organization of mating.