Evaluation of the Welfare of Şavak Akkaraman Sheep Raised in Extensive Farming Systems Using AWIN Protocol

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the welfare status of Şavak Akkaraman sheep raised in extensive farming systems in Erzincan Province, Türkiye, using the Animal Welfare Indicators (AWIN) protocol. Welfare was assessed on 25 farms involving 793 sheep (746 females and 47 males) using animal- and resource-based indicators. The most frequently observed negative conditions were abnormal mucosa colour (76.9%), hoof overgrowth (39.0%), fleece quality problems (35.7%), faecal soiling (37.8%), and minor lesions (28.9%). Significant differences between sexes were observed for thin body condition score, fleece cleanliness, mucosa colour, ocular discharge, fleece quality, and tail length (p < 0.05). Among age groups, significant differences were found for fleece cleanliness, panting, lesions, mucosa colour, and respiration quality (p < 0.05). No significant sex- or age-related differences were observed for hoof overgrowth, leg injuries, lameness, or faecal soiling. Overall, the findings indicate generally moderate-to-good welfare, while highlighting mucosa colour abnormalities, hoof overgrowth, and poor fleece condition as areas requiring improvement.