Maintain the condition of your sheep

Background information

Achieving appropriate nutrition throughout the year is the cornerstone of efficient livestock production. Sheep maintained in adequate body condition will achieve production targets. They will also be healthier and have less disease problems. The appropriate body condition of sheep will vary with the type of enterprise, class of sheep and time of . . . → Read More: Maintain the condition of your sheep

Prepare your ewes for next joining

Background information

Management of ewes for their next joining starts at weaning or with maiden ewes the previous winter. Important management tactics include:

Careful management of ewe nutrition after weaning to maximise condition score at joining. Reviewing the previous year’s management calendar to identify any potential improvements to the management program.

Assess the . . . → Read More: Prepare your ewes for next joining

Manage Weaners for lifetime productivity

Background information

Management of lambs after weaning has an important influence on reducing post weaning mortality, lifetime productivity and profitability. There are three key management aspects affecting weaner productivity:

Merino weaners need to reach bodyweight targets to ensure highest survival rates. All ewe weaners need to reach growth targets after weaning to achieve satisfactory . . . → Read More: Manage Weaners for lifetime productivity

Shepherd's Calender

The following summary provides an overall picture of when different management practices will occur throughout a reproductive cycle. Although it does provide the basics, it will not fit every operation and should be expanded or modified to accommodate the management priorities of each sheep farm.

Before Breeding Season Ewes Check udders for evidence of . . . → Read More: Shepherd’s Calender

Protecting sheep from predators with electric fences

Electric fence

Electric fences are an important tool for protecting sheep from predators such as coyotes, wolves, bears and domestic dogs. Studies have shown a 90 per cent reduction in sheep predation losses, when using electrified pasture fences. Electric fences are easily adapted to most livestock operations, are relatively easy to . . . → Read More: Protecting sheep from predators with electric fences

Guard animals for sheep

Guard dog for sheep

Livestock guard animals live with the flock, protecting the sheep from predation, without harming or interfering with the flock. It is important to remember that all types of guard animals should bond with the flock, not with humans. To be effective, they cannot be raised or treated . . . → Read More: Guard animals for sheep