Publication Date
11-2024
Series Number
DPIRD-189
Publisher
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia
City
Perth
Abstract
The feed requirements of a ewe with a lamb at foot are higher than if the ewe and lambs are fed separately. In a difficult season with short feed supplies, it is better to early-wean lambs from their mothers to lower feed costs and ensure that the ewes regain condition before joining. This issue becomes even more important as the costs of feeds increase.
Ewe's milk provides the main source of nutrition for lambs until about eight weeks of age. Lambs will sample pasture from about two weeks after birth but by eight weeks of age pasture overtakes milk as the major part of the diet of a lamb. Milk contributes only about 10% of nutrients for the lamb and little nutritional benefit is gained by leaving them with their mothers after this time.
Number of Pages
4
Keywords
early weaning, lambs, poor season, nutrition, feed requirements, joining, weight, pasture
Disciplines
Agricultural Education | Sheep and Goat Science
Recommended Citation
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia.
(2024), Early weaning of lambs in a poor season. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia, Perth. Factsheet DPIRD-189.
https://library.dpird.wa.gov.au/ap_factsheets/43
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