SHEAR LAMBS TO IMPROVE GROWTH AND REDUCE LABOUR

Removing the fleeces of lambs helps to lift growth rates and improve flock management. This, according to Heiniger’s Hefin Rowlands, should be carried out with care and the right equipment.

“Shearing every lamb in its first summer can increase growth rates by up to 20g a head. The best time varies from lowland to upland, but the window is usually between end of June and the beginning of October. Shearing lambs requires the same professionalism and attention to animal welfare as shearing ewes, so, whether hiring a professional or shearing on farm, it is important to have well serviced equipment,” he says.

An experienced shearer, Mr Rowlands also suggests that there are further benefits to shearing lambs during this period.

“Shearing lambs can reduce the risk of flystrike, keep lambs cleaner, stop lambs getting snagged or tangled in thick undergrowth,” he says.

The method for shearing lambs is no different to sheep, and shearing lambs towards the end of the summer or early autumn means that next year the flock will have less wool on their backs which will reduce the likelihood of them getting stuck on their backs due to heavy fleeces in the spring.  

“Shearing lambs also makes them easier to manage and transport because, with a smaller, shorn lamb, you can get more on a trailer,” he adds.

If shearing late in the season when temperatures are falling and heavy rain is more likely, it can be beneficial to house lambs to help with acclimatisation. However, it is not likely to be needed if shearing before the end of August.

“If shearing later, it is sometimes beneficial to leave the belly wool on because it offers insulation when the lamb lies down, especially in wet conditions,” he says.

With wool prices on the rise, he also suggests that there are gains to be made by having more wool to sell.

“If shorn well with the right equipment and at the right time, lambswool can command a premium. Having professional shearers or the training to shear accurately yourself is important, as is using a well maintained, quality handpiece with factory sharp combs and cutters,” he concludes.