Photoperiod and its relationship to sheep reproduction

Objective: To describe the seasonal variations throughout year (day length), as one of main environmental cues used by ewes to determine most favorable time for breeding. Design/methodology/approach: A description factors affecting ewe reproduction (photoperiod, suckling, postpartum period, nutrition, sociosexual effects) was assessed a review documentary information. Results: The inhibition reproductive activity during is common process in animal species prevent births from occurring at an unfavorable survival offspring. seasonality (northern latitude) allows occur late winter or early spring when climatic conditions are offspring development. Limitations/implications: duration anestrus season (seasonal postpartum) influenced photoperiod and other factors. In Mexico, small percentage Criollo Pelibuey show short anestrus; that is, they almost continuous annual activity. Therefore, improve efficiency ewes, it important precisely affect their management increase profits production units. Findings/Conclusions: Photoperiod factor regulating cycle occurs through very complex varied mechanisms communicate visual system with gonads nervous endocrine pathways.