Corn silage can be used as a major feed source for ewes providing it is properly supplemented. Corn silage is notably deficient in protein, calcium, and is questionable as far as phosphorous and selenium is concerned.

The protein content of stressed silage will likely be higher than that found in normal corn silage, but the energy content will be lower. Supplemental energy such as grain may be needed to obtain ewe performance equal to normal silage.

A mineral mixture of 200 lbs of DiCal, 100 lbs of limestone and 100 lbs of trace mineral salt should be provided on a free-choice basis at all times to the ewes. Providing a commercial mineral mixture for sheep that includes selenium would give some assurance that lambs born of ewes fed corn silage would not have white muscle disease.

While corn silage should have plenty of Vitamin A equivalent from the carotene, it does not have a significant level of Vitamin D and, in some areas, Vitamin E. An injectable vitamin mix is probably the most reliable way to assure the ewes are not deficient.

It is important that when corn silage is fed, all ewes have access at the same time to the feed in order to obtain equal consumption. This may require 1.5 to 2 feet of bunk space per ewe.

Feeding suggestions for corn silage based on 150 lb. ewes:

Maintenance: 7 to 8 lbs/day.

Early Gestation (16 weeks): 8 to 9 lbs/day.

Late Gestation (6 weeks): Increase from 8 to 9 lbs/day up to 10 to 11 lbs/day plus 1/2 to 1 pound of grain daily. Somewhat more bunk space (an additional 6"/ewe) may be needed during this period to accommodate the ewe's larger middles and to prevent abortions from injury and ketosis.

Lactation: Ewes with twins should be fed all they will consume which should approach 15 pounds. Ewes with singles could be fed 11 to 13 pounds. Providing an additional protein source is highly recommended during lactation. Feeding a pound or two of good quality alfalfa or a 1/2 to 1 pound of a protein supplement should provide the needed protein that a ewe requires.

1993