Ewes carrying single lambs should be managed as if they are carrying twins, according to Dennis Taylor from Smyths Daleside Feeds.
He spoke at a recent lamb information evening, hosted by Fane Valley in Ballycastle, Co. Antrim.
Taylor explained: “Many ewes carrying single lambs will be expected to rear triplet lambs produced by other flock mates.
“So they will need to produce enough milk to meet the needs of two lambs and they should be managed accordingly during their pregnancies.”
In his presentation to the meeting, Smyth stressed the need to bring the ewe into the final stages of her pregnancy without losing too much weight.
He continued: “The final seven weeks is critical. Approximately 75% of total foetal growth is achieved during this period.
“And with lambs getting bigger, the ewe has a lower feed intake capacity.
“So, flock owners must make sure that the rations they offer the ewes at this stage is of a very high quality,” he added.
As with all ruminants, hay or silage will be a critically important component of the pregnant ewe’s diet.
Taylor explained: “It’s important for silage to be analysed, so as to ensure that the total ration offered meets her exact nutritional needs.”
High quality concentrates are required to meet the ewe’s energy requirements in late pregnancy.
“Top quality protein sources should also be specified in order to ensure optimal development of the udder,” Taylor confirmed.
“Colostrum production hits its peak a fortnight before lambing. And pre-lambing rations must reflect this need.
“This principle holds for all ewes in the run up to lambing. This is another reason why single bearing ewes need access to high quality concentrates.
“Irrespective of the lamb numbers they are carrying, the mothers need to produce high quality colostrum to give their newborns the best possible start,” he continued.
Meals should be introduced to pregnant ewes gradually and certainly well before three weeks prior to lambing.
Concentrates can be fed once a day if the feed rate is below one pound per head.
“However, if feed rates go above this level, it’s a case of feeding twice daily,” Taylor said.
“Heavy concentrate feeding will predispose pregnant ewes to acidosis.”
He concluded: “All feeds should be introduced and or changed slowly. It’s very much a case of gradually transitioning all changes in nutrition, where pregnant ewes are concerned.”
