Pregnancy Scanning
Scanning to detect empty, single- and twin-bearing ewes in flocks is being adopted by ever-increasing numbers of Merino and Prime Lamb producers to more accurately target ewe nutrition and to inform culling decisions. Industry estimates are that over 100 contractor businesses are now scanning almost 40% of the national ewe flock.
The value of scanning comes from feed savings of the empty ewes which may allow more ewes to be carried, and the feed intake of the twin-bearing ewes can be increased which should lead to higher production from these ewes and their progeny.
The Sheep CRC, in conjunction with the lifetimewool project, in order to show that ultrasound scanning can be used to drive productivity and increase profits has set out to quantify the benefits from pregnancy scanning and refine the management of empty, single and twin-bearing ewes. Find out more about whether to scan for multiples or just pregnant or not and to read the economic analysis visit the pages
The Value of pregnancy scanning – should I do it?
To make the most of the pregnancy diagnosis it is important for the observations to be very accurate. The sheep CRC in conjunction with pregnancy scanning contractors has developed some tips on how to make your scanning accurate and hassle free.
Information on the pregnancy status of ewes enables farmers to:
• Identify and manage ewes separately according to pregnancy status;
• Identify and potentially cull dry ewes from flock;
• Identify early and late joined single bearing ewes;
• Calculate lamb losses between scanning and marking.
Having a concise joining period and choosing the correct time for having the scanning done are extremely important. Visit these pages
Successful pregnancy scanning to get the best information and to
find a contractor in your area.
Half day workshops
These ½ day workshops focus on the management of pregnant ewes and give a good overview of joining, pregnancy and lactation as well as an introduction to some practical tools and skills. For those producers who have pregnancy scanned their ewes these workshops will help them get the most out of their scanned ewes. The workshops include some theory and practical hands-on sessions.
If you think you and/or your neighbours would be interested in these practical training activities, please contact us for details of scheduled events or for more information on hosting one of these workshops in your area
CJ Hawkins Homestead, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351