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Joining Ewe Weaners

"Sheep breeders wishing to increase sheep numbers to improve production should consider the option of joining young ewes earlier than normal," says Gary Hallam, DPI (Horsham) Sheep and Wool Specialist.

By Department of Primary Industries - 14th November 2005 - Back to News

"Good lambing results can be achieved with a little attention to detail," Mr Hallam said. "Weaners should be of minimum weight of 40kg at joining, achieved by providing the best available feed.

"Research done by the Department of Agriculture Western Australia, has shown a 70% pregnancy rate can be achieved, and with no adverse effect on subsequent lambing performance.

"Using more rams (than would be used with older ewes) and using rams that will produce lambs of lower birth weight, will help to increase lambing percentage.

"Scan ewes to identify which are pregnant and monitor the weights of the ewes in late pregnancy in order to avoid oversized lambs.

"Wean the lambs early and put the ewes on good feed. Merino ewes may take longer to reach puberty than other breeds and therefore should be at least ten months of age, as well as the desired weight.

"Good nutrition and early weaning are key components to achieving good results in lambing and may require the use of fodder crops, perennial pastures or feedlots."

For more information of joining ewe weaners, contact Gary Hallam at DPI Horsham on 03 5362 2111.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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