Nematodirus
Nematodirus is very easy to spot in a faecal test as the eggs are much larger than other worms that could be present. The life cycle of Nematodirus is different to other worms as it reproduces once a year and can take 8-9 months from eggs to hatching. The hatching is dependent on weather conditions, this is why SCOPS has a very useful Nematordirus forecast (which can be found here: https://www.scops.org.uk/forecasts/nematodirus-forecast/). During the 9 months on pasture waiting to hatch, the larvae are developing so that when they do hatch, they are ready to be ingested by the flock, which makes them that much more of a threat.
Have you Nematodirus or Coccidiosis?
Who is at risk?
Lambs. This is because it takes 12-14 weeks to build up immunity after being exposed. Once the Nematodirus hatches, they can cause problems for your lambs between 10-14 days after. Worms your lamb 7-10 days after the warning that Nematodirus is hatching.
Resistance
Resistance to white wormer with Nematodirus is rare. This is because of the rate of production makes the rate of evolution and the potential to become resistant much slower than other worms. Albacert is a white wormer and an excellent choice when dealing with Nematodirus. Because Nematodirus comes out earlier than other worms you can feel safe that you are getting a good strike against the worm and not adding to the resistance of white wormers to other worm species. Once Nematodirus season has ended, we then recommend moving on to different coloured wormers.
When it comes to treating your livestock make sure you listen to your territory manager. Using the correct product, correctly, at the correct time is essential to not just for your llivestock’s wellbeing, but the wellbeing of the farmer.