Microclimate of the fleece

Abstract

Extract

The microclimate of the fleece is important for a number of reasons. First, it may be considered as a buffer system between the animal and the macroclimate and, as such, has an important influence on the way the sheep manipulates its body temperature control mechanism. Secondly, it is an important component of the environment in which can be found large numbers of micro-organisms, some of which are harmful to the animal and some harmful to the fleece. Thirdly, it influences the survival and habits of a number of ectoparasites and these, too, can be harmful to the animal and the fleece.