Marooned ewes add to sea of troubles
Marooned ewes add to sea of troubles
AS WELL as preventing producers from marketing stock at optimum times, movement restrictions are presenting serious difficulties to flockmasters wishing to bring away-wintered ewes back to holdings for lambing.
Many ewes are marooned away from holdings at the most vulnerable time in their production cycle, says independent sheep consultant Lesley Stubbings. "There is a possibility of getting a MAFF exemption on welfare grounds, but this isnt happening currently and producers are faced with the dismal prospect of lambing ewes outside."
Using straw bales for shelter, hurdles and plenty of straw in pens will help, she advises.
"Holding ewes and lambs in a small area increases risk from diseases other than foot-and-mouth so pay particular attention to using clean straw, dressing navels with alcohol-based iodine and personal hygiene."
Pregnant animals of any species should receive special attention, especially when there is danger of feed shortages, says MLC beef scientist Duncan Pullar.
"Currently feed deliveries are happening normally but if problems arise, prioritise stock so pregnant animals receive the biggest slice of the cake."
Dilute rations for stock close to finishing, he advises. "Reduce intake but avoid store rations and keep them growing. For intensively finished bulls or concentrate fed lambs, gradually reduce concentrate and replace with straw, not necessarily ad lib."
Animals can stay on these diets for several weeks, still producing a reasonable carcass. But there is no point in pushing cattle close to 30 months, he says. "Little can be done about these cattle apart from feeding them on a maintenance ration."
Although most beef and sheep producers will have adequate space for stock, pig producers may run short of space, says Dr Pullar. For those having to set up emergency pens outside, MLC advises picking a well drained site on a gentle slope which takes account of the prevailing wind.
What to do about fallen stock and dairy calves is a question on many producers minds. But MAFF has announced a limited exemption to the prohibition of livestock movements. Animals slaughtered for welfare reasons or which have died on the premises may be moved to a rendering plant, knackers yard or hunt kennel.
• Further information is available from MLC (01908-677 577, www.mlc.org.uk)