Variation in lamb survival within farm and between farms:
results from farmer studies
I.S. Tarbotton and R.W. Webby
AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1999, 59: 73-75
Variation in lamb loses between scanning and docking were
investigated in 1997 in a survey and an on farm study. Ultrasonography
results on MA ewes showed a range from 130 to 191% foetuses scanned/ewes
present. Ewe weights at joining ranged from 54 to 70 kg. Survival of
multiple and single was 78%, and 92% respectively. Differences between
scanning and docking comprised 21% ewe deaths, 49% dead lambs and 30%
missing /unseen. Paddock docking results were 157% to 188% for ewes with
2 lambs and from 90% to 109% for 1 lamb. Paddocks were assessed on the
basis of slope, aspect, shelter, hazards and disturbance. Lack of
shelter on easy contours, disturbance and steep slopes appeared to
exacerbate lamb deaths. Adverse weather was not a factor in the year of
this study.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
ewe; lamb survival; survey; ultrasonography; farmer study.
Last Updated 06-08-1999
