Scanning results will provide sheep farmers with the first indication of how many lambs are likely to need fostering this spring, according to Volac’s Jackie Bradley.
“Preparing a carefully planned rearing protocol before lambing starts will be time well invested since well grown artificially reared lambs will leave an acceptable margin that can be considered a worthwhile additional income stream,” she said.
Bradley also said that like all successful youngstock systems, surplus lamb rearing requires attention to detail, from daily cleaning of the feeding equipment to providing light airy well drained accommodation.
“Unless you literally have a handful of surplus lambs, then ad lib bucket or automatic machine systems will prove cost effective.”
Both these systems will save labour, encourage improved growth and reduce the risk of digestive upsets, she said.
These systems offer the best alternative to the ewe.
Independent sheep consultant, Kate Philip also said that preparation is key for the success of artificially reared lamb systems.
Philip said that farmers should prepare a suitable building or space, which is free from draughts, with good ventilation and free drainage. A heat lamp may also be required.
She said that dark, poorly ventilated, outdated building is not acceptable.
The UK-based consultant also said that the space allowance is important and group size should be limited to a maximum of 25 lambs.
Preparing a clean dry area for milk powder storage is also important and farmers should check to see if their scales, mixing and cleaning equipment are all in working order, she said.
The sheep specialist also said that when a ewe has three lambs wet fostering one of the lambs on to a single rearing ewe is the best option.
But when wet fostering is not an option, she said that farmers should consider the target market when picking a lamb for artificial rearing.
She also said that entire ram lambs may be better suited to artificial rearing systems, as they reach slaughter weight quicker due to a 10% higher growth rate than castrated male lambs or ewe lambs.