Maximising lamb output with the sale of strong and healthy lambs at a maximum price is the ultimate goal for every sheep producer. Yet, with an average scanning percentage of just 170% in the UK flock, there are opportunities to improve.
A key factor involved in maximising lambing percentages and number of ewes holding to first service is body condition score (BCS) at tupping time. It is recommended that lowland and hill ewes are BCS 3.5 and 2.5 respectively when going into the tup, this helps to support optimal ovulation rates and ensure pregnancy success. Typically, lambs are weaned 8 to 10 weeks pre-tupping to allow ewes to recover and gain BCS if required. It is estimated that ewes require at least 6 to 8 weeks of good quality grazing (>10.5 ME MJ/kg DM) to gain 1 BCS. However, if ewes are required to increase the condition score by more than one, or grazing is limited or poor quality then supplementation in the period from weaning through to mating can support grass utilisation and ensure ewes reach the optimum body condition for tupping.
Furthermore, providing a high energy lick such as SHEEP NATURAL ENERGY from two weeks prior to introducing the tup for a total of 8 weeks will support the ewe during early pregnancy when embryo implantation occurs. Supplementing ewes at this time will help maintain nutrition levels during and after mating when grazing quality typically declines, whilst also providing additional minerals and vitamins, all of which help to support this critical process in early pregnancy. On farm trials have shown that offering supplementation to ewes during this critical period can increase lambing percentage whilst the maintenance of BCS during tupping and into pregnancy will have positive effects on both lamb health and performance.
SHEEP NATURAL ENERGY; THE NATURAL CHOICE AT TUPPING:
- 13.5 MJ of ME to support ewe condition
- 16.5% CP (Crude Protein) including high quality DUP (Digestible Undegradable Protein)
- Fish oil, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids for optimal fertility and lamb vigour
- Protected zinc to support hoof integrity
- High levels of vitamin E and selenium for easier lambing and thrifty lambs
- Offer from 2 weeks pre-tupping for a total of 8 weeks
- Can be offered sooner to support BCS