Most sheep operations derive the majority of their income from the sale of lambs or meat. As a result, lamb prices have a large influence on profitability and viability of the sheep enterprise. There are numerous options for marketing lambs and pros and cons to each one. When comparing marketing options, it is important to […] More
Severe losses are suffered by farmers due to predators. The severity of the problem varies by farm and geographic region. For some producers, predator losses can be so overwhelming that they decide to give up sheep farming. Other producers may seldom experience a loss due to predators. Regardless of the perceived predator threat, all sheep […] More
Avaluable asset on any farm is grazing. The value of this asset can be increased even more with proper management. Grazing management is how and when you control the grazing habits of the animals on your pastures. What animals, how, when, and for how long they graze a pasture determines the species make-up of the […] More
Ewe lambs (source: flickr.com) Investing in proper nutrition for pregnant and lactating ewes saves both time and money in the long run. Ewes in good body condition prior to lambing have healthier lambs and fewer complications than underweight or overweight ewes. As 70% of foetal lamb growth occurs in the last five weeks of pregnancy, […] More
As with people, sheep do not require specific feeds. They require energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, fibre, and water. Many different feedstuffs can meet their nutritional requirements. Energy Energy makes up the largest portion of the diet and is usually the most limiting nutrient in sheep diets. Carbohydrates, fat, and excess protein in the diet all […] More
Effective sheep handling equipment can cut labour hours by as much as 18%, while allowing handlers to complete a variety of tasks efficiently and safely. The layout of the sheep farm, the labour available, and the sheep handling equipment used will determine the farm’s outputs and results. Sheep handling equipment can assist farmers with monitoring, […] More
Though frequency and need varies, it is usually necessary to handle sheep several times per year for various reasons. Without an easy way to handle sheep and lambs, important tasks often get delayed or forgotten. Improper handling causes needless stress to both the sheep and the handlers. A thorough understanding of sheep behaviour is the […] More
One of the most important aspects of any animal-based agricultural operation is having an effective waste management plan which reaps the benefits of the waste and helps reduce the risks associated with the use and disposal of animal wastes. Improper manure management can have a detrimental effect on water quality. Monitoring animals on a regular […] More
Devastating losses can be caused in sheep flocks by parasites. In most sheep production areas, internal parasites, or gastro-intestinal nematodes, also known as worms, are the primary disease affecting sheep and lambs. Sheep are more vulnerable to internal parasites than most other types of farm livestock for several reasons. Their small faecal pellets disintegrate very […] More
Housing needs for sheep vary by climate, seasons of lambing, and management preferences of the farmer. Many different types of housing can be used for sheep. Traditional barns, pole buildings, and metal buildings are usually more expensive, but they provide the best protection for the sheep, feed, and equipment. The physiological impact of the number […] More
Reproduction is one of the most important factors which determine profitability when farming with sheep. The reproductive rate varies by farm, production system, and geographic areas. An ewe’s production year can be divided into four distinct critical periods. The ewe is mated during a mating season of about three to six weeks, followed by a […] More
The sheep farming series comes to an end. In our last edition, we discuss a few odd topics like slatted floors, gates and wool tables, bins and presses. We thank the ARC Agricultural Engineering in South Africa for making their manual on sheep production and facilities available to the readers of ProAgri Zambia. Slatted floors […] More
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