OviCast (OviCast)

Darren Carty, Sheep and Schemes Editor with the Farmers Journal is on this week’s OviCast episode to look back on the trends in the national ewe flocks over the past decade and the implications of this for the sheep industry. 

 

Darren discusses the change in ewe numbers, the regional shift and the impact this has had on the sector. 

 

We discuss breeding sales this year, opportunities and resilience in the sector and finish the conversation with Darren highlighting some of the technical areas that will come more into focus in the coming seasons.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast 

On this week’s OviCast, I’m joined by Catherine Egan host of the Teagasc Beef Edge podcast for a joint episode to discuss all things clover with Dr. Mike Egan, Teagasc researcher. 

 

Mike starts by highlighting the potential role of clover in drystock systems, how it works and the potential cost savings. 

 

We discuss the impact of soil fertility and weed control has on successful establishment and Mike talks about the impact of timing, sowing rate and varieties selection and over-sowing methods of incorporating clover in to sward. 

 

Post-sowing management can have a big impact on establishment and Mike brings us through grazing management from establishment to closing up at the end of the grazing season as well as offering some tips on minimising the risk of bloat. 

 

Finally, Mike highlights the suite of resources available for farmers to find out more about clover. 

 

For more information go to:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2022/Clover-Management-2022.pdf

 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

To discuss the whole area of external parasite control at this stage of the season, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Morgan Lane from Bimeda. Morgan describes the main external parasites that can be an issue in flocks at this stage of the season such as lice and sheep scab. He explains the various control measures that are available from topical applications, injectable treatments and plunge dipping. Morgan explains what each of these treatment options are suitable for, their correct use and their limitations. As plunge dipping provides the most comprehensive treatment option, he discusses best practice when it comes to dipping, safe use of the chosen product and disposal afterwards. Morgan finishes up by discussing the availability of mobile plunge dip operators who are currently providing a service nationally. List of Mobile plunge dip operators: http://www.sheepdippers.ie/ For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to talk about diagnosing and treating hypothermia in lambs. 

 

Michael explains what hypothermia is, the symptoms and predisposing factors. 

 

They discuss steps involved to warm these lambs up to normal body temperature based on age, severity and the type of energy source required. 

 

Michael explains why and how to use the glucose/intra-peritoneal injection, describing the technique, how to make up the glucose solution and why it’s a vital lifesaving technique that farmers can use. 

 

Here also is a link to a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar covering this and other lambing related topics: 

https://bit.ly/Letstalksheep_Mar23

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Drs. Tim Keady and Bríd McClearn join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain the EuroSheep project which is a thematic network involving eight partner countries. Tim gives some background to the project and its aims while Bríd explains how the project is being implemented, firstly by identifying the needs from each of the countries. Bríd also explains how they drew on the resources within each country to come up with solutions to these needs. Tim discusses how practical ‘tips and tricks’ are being collated to facilitate the implementation of the solutions at farm level and Bríd explains how the distinct messages from the project are being disseminated to the wider industry through social media and the EuroSheep website as well as the upcoming national workshop which will be held next May. To find out more about the project visit their website at: https://eurosheep.network/ or the Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/EuroSheep/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

As we enter the final grazing rotation of the season, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Dr. Philip Creighton who offers some grazing advice to keep us on track from now to set up our spring grazing. Philip starts by discussing the importance of achieving good graze outs and how that influences sward production next spring. Philip also offers tips on dealing with heavy covers that are on many farms this October and he discusses the closing targets and why they are important. Finally, Philip highlights why it’s important to avoid the temptation of re-grazing closed paddocks and why we need to prioritise these for spring grazing. Teagasc sheep autumn closing planner: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep/teagasc-sheep-autumn-closing-planner.php For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week’s OviCast is joined by post-graduate student Lisa McGrane and Dr Philip Creighton to discuss some of the results of an ongoing study between Teagasc and UCD examining how companion forages – chicory, plantain, red and white clover - perform alongside a perennial ryegrass sward in sheep systems. 

 

With four years data collected, Lisa discusses what impact these forages have had on ewe and lamb performance before moving on to discuss the impact of this on drafting, concentrate supplementation and carcass spec. 

 

Keeping some of these forages in the sward can prove challenging, and Philip explains this in more detail as well as some of the aspects they are examining that may help improve persistency. 

 

Finally with the upcoming technical open day in the Athenry Research Centre looming Philip highlights how this is an ideal opportunity to hear more about Lisa’s work and the other ongoing studies in Teagasc.

 

To find out more about the upcoming sheep open day why not watch the following short clip: 

https://youtu.be/2mL4AqygOso

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week’s OviCast, we catch up with Dr Frank Campion to get an update on the BETTER farm sheep flocks. 

We discuss this year’s scanning results, dealing with issues and benchmarking performance. We move on to ewe condition score on the farms at scanning and since tupping and discuss the practical steps farmers can take to manage this. 

We finish up discussing grass supplies, preparing for lambing and culling problem ewes. 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Bord Bia Sheep Sector manager, Seamus McMenamin, joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to give a market update. 

 

Seamus discusses current throughput and some of the challenges with light carcass at present. 

 

He also discusses the international trade, in particular the increased volumes of Australian lambs and what impact that has had on our export market. 

 

Seamus has an update on plant approval to get lamb exported onto the US market, and with store lamb sales ramping up, we move on to discuss the potential impact of an earlier Easter and Ramadan on the hogget trade next spring. 

 

Finally, we discuss domestic promotional activity to target a younger audience to improve domestic consumption.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update on the latest OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. 

Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers and some of the variation across the country. We discuss building covers and planning ahead for closing up paddocks. 

Niamh also discusses the fertiliser register and upcoming deadlines for fertiliser slurry and FYM. 

We finish up with Niamh offering tips on grazing autumn reseeds.

For more, you can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

As silage season is kicking off, this week’s OviCast is joined by Dr. Tim Keady to discuss the importance of focusing on quality. Tim highlights why high feed value silage is essential for the coming year and the opportunities it presents. Tim sets the target of producing 75+ DMD silage to sustain high levels of performance and allow for concentrate saving in the coming winter. He discusses the impact of silage quality on the performance pregnant ewes and beef systems before then discussing the concentrate sparing effect of high quality silage - something that will certainly come into focus in the coming winter. Finally, Tim discuss how much high quality silage is required in the system. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week’s OviCast, we catch up with postgraduate student, Jake Delaney, to discuss some of the results of a survey he collected last year looking at ovine lameness in Ireland and assessment of farmer management. 

 

Jakes gives us some background to the issues and his survey and we discuss the type and level of lameness reported and the increased levels of CODD. 

 

Jake talks to us about correct identification and the impact that can have on control. We discuss management practices on farm to reduce lameness, prompt treatment, culling repeat offenders and quarantine. 

 

We finish up with Jake summarising some of the key findings and other ongoing work in the area.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss managing ewe lamb replacements and the influence that has on their subsequent productivity. 

Tim first outlines the various sources of replacements in the national flocks. With the majority of these replacements not entering flocks until 18-19 months of age, he discusses the various factors during the rearing phase that influence their subsequent productivity. 

Tim breaks down the rearing phase into winter and summer management and explains their impacts. 

He then discusses the target weights at the various stages and how these might be achieved. 

Finally, Tim highlights the importance of replacement ewe lambs management and why it’s an investment in the future productivity of the flock. 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast with an update on what’s been happening in the BETTER farm flocks. They discuss grass growth, surpluses and silage and some of the management challenges during the past few weeks. With the first round of weighing complete for the lowland flocks, Frank outlines how lambs are performing this spring. They discuss the variation among flocks and across years and discuss how early lamb performance can actually impact management for the rest of the season and examine the options to reduce poor performers. Finally, Frank offers his advice on keeping lambs on track for the coming weeks. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Kieran O’Mahony, Area Veterinary Manager at Zoetis, joins us on this week’s OviCast to discuss Clostridial vaccination in sheep. 

 

Kieran outlines the challenges posed by Clostridial disease, followed by an in-depth discussion on vaccination strategies and optimal timing for both ewes and lambs. 

 

We also cover key practical considerations, including proper vaccine storage and administration, and why these steps are crucial for effectiveness. 

 

Additionally, we address the supply challenges encountered this year and their impact on vaccination programmes.

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week’s OviCast podcast is from a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar with Maresa Sheehan who is based in the DAFM RVL in county Kilkenny. 

 

Maresa talks about the flock health issues that they observe in the lab each spring, what causes them and explains what approach to take when issues occur. 

 

She goes on to discuss the thin ewe survey which is a new project being run by the RVLs across the country this year. 

 

Maresa also takes questions submitted by the audience on the night and a full recording of the webinar will be available on the Teagasc YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/user/TeagascMedia 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

On a blustery evening in the end of July, for this episode of Ovicast, Ciaran Lynch caught up with Co. Westmeath Farmer John Bell, a former winner of the Sheep Farmer of the Year completion and a previous host of the Irish Grassland Association Sheep event. John runs a high output sheep system from a 46 ha grass based farm he manages a 500 ewe flock with an additional 130+ ewe lambs rearing lambs each year. John started by giving a background to the flock, the system and the farm, he discusses some of the changes in the system over the past number of years and how he implemented a paddock grazing system on the farm including his use of temporary fencing. Finally, he discusses lamb finishing on the farm and how he targets supplementation at finishing groups opposed to blanket feeding. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Dr Fiona Lovatt from Flock Health joins us on this week’s OviCast to talk about the bluetongue situation in the UK. 

 

Fiona gives us a description of the condition and explains the impact it has on livestock. We discuss the spread of it in Europe and the UK and the control measures put in place to limit its impact and how they work. 

 

We also discuss the role of vaccination and how this differs from previous serotypes encountered. 

 

More information on bluetongue can be found on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s website at:

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/cd6c0-bluetongue-virus/ 

 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Incorporating clover into a sward has multiple benefits in livestock systems and to discuss this in more detail on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Dr Philip Creighton. From recent work being conducted in Teagasc Athenry, Philip starts by explaining the impact that increasing the clover content in swards has on animal performance. He goes on to explain how this can reduce the requirement for chemical nitrogen during the mid-season period. Philip and Ciarán then discuss inclusion levels in a reseed mix and Philip highlights the clover varieties that should be considered for sheep swards before moving on to focus on over-sowing clover into existing swards with Philip outlining why the coming weeks are an ideal time to consider this. They discuss the various methods available to accomplish this and what impact pre-sowing sward management and site selection have on the successful establishment of a clover in the sward. Finally, Philip discusses grazing management post-sowing and why frequent grazing of lighter covers is of benefit to clover establishment. For more on the grass and white clover recommended list varieties for Ireland 2021 go to: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/8dbf3-grass-and-white-clover-recommended-list-varieties-for-ireland-2021/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Post-graduate student, Sarah Woodmartin, and Dr Fiona McGovern join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss ongoing work examining the effect of companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep as part of a wider Grass2Gas project. 

 

Sarah first gives a bit of background to the project before discussing what is being examined, some of the preliminary results and their implications as well as future areas of interest. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Tim Keady from Teagasc who is the lead researcher in Ireland for a new EU-funded project called Sm@RT joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain the project. Sm@RT brings together a network of researchers from eight countries: Ireland, Estonia, France, Hungary, Italy, Norway, UK and Israel. Tim explains how the aim of Sm@rt is to increase the awareness of those working in the sheep and goat sectors of newly available precision livestock farming (PLF) tools. He also explains what PLF tools are and how they can potentially improve productivity and labour efficiency. Tim then discusses how improving efficiency and reducing labour input is a challenge for the sector right across Europe. He outlines how the network of researchers involved will pool resources to identify solutions for the respective countries involved. As the project is in its early stages those involved in the project are seeking farmers and stakeholders opinions on PLF tools via a survey. The survey is available at the following link: https://bit.ly/3sI0Eni Tim encourages stakeholders in the sheep supply chain (farmer to processor) to have their voices heard by identifying their needs and areas of interest. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Mark Plunkett, soil and plant nutrition specialist with Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss some key areas to maintain soil fertility. Mark discusses the importance of replacing p & K offtakes from surplus silage and discusses the fertiliser requirements for those considering a second cut of silage with Mark outlining a number of options. He also explains why sulphur inclusion is an important consideration highlighting the responses achieved on a range of soils there is a discussion on the benefits of low emissions slurry spreading at this stage of the season. Lime usage nationally is highlighted as well as explaining why current ground conditions provide an ideal opportunity to consider applying some to correct soil pH issues. Finally, there is a discussion on the use of Protected urea as a choice of N fertiliser during this stage of the season. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the subject of joining ewe lambs to lambs at 1 year old. Tim starts by outlining the potential to improve productivity by lambing ewe lambs at 1 year old, but he also highlights some of the challenges it can place on the system. He discusses the various effects of joining weight on productivity, the use of the ram effect and management of ewe lambs throughout the joining period. Finally, Tim discusses the knock on effect lambing yearling ewes has on their subsequent performance particularly the following season as 18 month olds. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

At a point in the season where we’re looking at how lambs perform and where the tail end lambs come from, on this week’s OviCast podcast, we chat to Dr Frank Campion about how foster lambs perform in commercial flocks. 

 

Frank discusses some work he has recently presented on the topic, we discuss how these lambs grow in early and late lactation, the variation among them and their counterparts and some of the reasons why some lag behind and others aren’t successfully reared drop off. 

 

We finish up discussing how ewe management this autumn can impact this next spring. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The practical aspects of housing and feed management are discussed on the latest episode of Ovicast with sheep specialist Damian Costello joining Ciarán Lynch. Damian begins by explaining why its important to match the number of ewes to pen capacity and he outlines the recommended feed and lying space guidelines. He then discusses feed management, access to roughage and introducing concentrates to the diet. With the cold snap in weather Damian highlights the importance of checking drinkers and ensuring there is a constant fresh water supply. He also talks about management of shy feeders and the need to manage these separately. Finally, Damian discusses tips for flocks housing close to lambing to facilitate the smooth transition of ewes on to late pregnancy diets. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Teagasc Advisor, Christy Watson, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the importance of tacking soil fertility. Christy starts by explaining why now is the ideal time to take soil samples on farms to determine the fertility status and identify areas that need attention. Christy takes us through the soil sampling process from how many samples per hectare to the correct collection method and he discusses the importance of acting on the result with Christy highlighting potential savings that can be made by reducing compound usage on high indexed grazing ground this year. However, Christy also highlights the need to make best use of slurry and farmyard manure on silage ground, highlighting the P and K offtake that occurs on an annual basis and the impact this has on yields. Finally, he explains the importance of liming and why this is the first port of call when addressing soil fertility issues. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week’s OviCast we talk to independent sheep and beef consultant, Dr Liz Genever, about an on-farm project she was involved in examining various bedding options.

Liz gives us a background to the project, what bedding options they compared, how they set it up and what they examined.

We discuss the levels of usage of the various bedding sources, labour input, ewe cleanliness and ultimately costs involved.

We move on to discuss the suitability of each, a hybrid bedding model incorporating different bedding options and how the farm where the project was conducted changed practices.

Finally, Liz highlights the ways to stretch supplies with key areas to focus on. 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast 

Sheep and Schemes editor from the Irish Farmers Journal, Darren Carty, is on this week’s OviCast to talk about the current sheep trade. 

 

With prices hitting new highs we chat about the trade at the moment. 

 

Darren talks to us about the hogget trade this spring, the start of the early lamb hitting the market and niche markets for milk lamb. 

 

We discuss what’s driving trade, what’s happening on international markets and speculate for what may be in store in the coming months. 

 

We finish up discussing the cull ewe trade and weighing up the option of selling in marts versus direct to abattoirs.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist, Mark Plunkett, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss fertiliser planning this spring. 

 

With fertiliser costs remaining high, Mark starts by explaining timing, location and rate of nitrogen application this spring with Mark highlighting the crops’ requirements at present. 

 

He discusses the P & K requirements and how this could be supplied to grazing ground and the silage crop with Mark emphasising the importance of slurry use and alternative strategies where this is not available. 

 

He then discusses the impact of correcting soil pH has on productivity and N use efficiency and why more farmers need to consider spreading lime where needed. 

 

Finally, Mark highlights the importance of fertiliser spreader calibration this spring. 

 

For more info: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/soil--soil-fertility/

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With the mating season finishing up on many farms, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss ram management post mating. Rams are a significant investment for any flock and Michael puts this into perspective on a cost per lamb basis. He goes on to outline the issues with ram longevity and the high turnover rate seen in flocks. He discusses how management practices during the post-mating period can influence this. Michael outlines the problems encountered with rams fighting and offers his tips on how to reduce this risk; he then talks about the importance of addressing ram health issues and culling at this stage of the season. Finally, he discusses the importance of putting condition back on rams post-mating, particularly ram lambs, and what supplementation may be required to achieve this. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Environmental specialist, Tim Hyde, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss fertiliser limits on farms. 

 

We discuss how the introduction of the fertiliser register has put purchased fertiliser more in the spotlight on farms. 

 

Tim explains the implications of this, how farmers can work out their stocking rate and what the limits are on farm. 

 

We discuss the importance of soil sampling, how this impacts your fertiliser limit and the importance of a fertiliser plan. 

 

We finish up discussing some changes to slurry spreading and the use of LESS technology on farms that are in place this season and coming down the tracks. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

As the breeding season for early lambing and pedigree flocks is starting, Prof. David Kenny Head of the Animal Biosciences Dept in Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of synchronisation in ewes. David starts by explaining the pros and cons of synchronisation in sheep and he discusses the role of sponging and PMSG in the synchronising process as well as the protocol used, including the timing of ram introduction. David then highlights the importance of the correct ewe to ram ratio and discusses some strategies to deal this. He finishes up discussing the rate of PMSG used and how ewe prolificacy and time of season affect the level of response. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For the latest OviCast podcast, Ciarán Lynch discusses late pregnancy nutrition with Dr Tim Keady. 

 

Tim discusses the impact of nutrition on performance in the weeks before lambing and Tim explains the increase in foetal growth that occurs during these final weeks of gestation and the impact this has on the ewe’s energy demand and intake. 

 

He discusses concentrate price and why it’s essential to examine ration composition when purchasing. Tim expands on this point giving his pick of energy, fibre and protein sources he would include in a ration. 

 

The discussion moves on to the impact of protein source on performance with Tim discussing the results of trials comparing soya bean meal to alternative protein sources. 

 

Finally, Tim explains target feeding rates and what influences this.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The focus for this week’s episode of the OviCast podcast switches to grassland with Ciarán Lynch joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss the key priorities for April. Philip starts by discussing the current grazing situation before then moving on to discuss the key management tasks from grouping up to temporary fencing with Philip explaining the impact this has on grass growth and animal performance. He offers some advice on fertiliser application during April and the impact that this has on the system. He then discusses planning next year’s winter fodder on farms emphasising the need to focus not only on quantity but quality silage. Finally, Philip highlights the upcoming round of spring grass walks that will be held nationwide. For more on food and fodder security go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/food-and-fodder-security/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Frank Campion re-joins us as we discuss lamb performance post-weaning on the latest OviCast podcast.

 

Frank talks about lamb performance on farms post-weaning and some of the factors that influence this. 

 

We discuss lamb growth rates since weaning on the BETTER farms and how they have been managing lambs. 

 

We move on to discuss lamb management, finish times, supplementation and where the priorities lie on farms for the coming weeks.

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we catch up with Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, to get an update on the current situation and discuss management tips in the coming weeks.

 

Niamh first highlights the factors that have limited grass growth over the last number of months. 

 

She also comments on the long term Nitrogen fertiliser type trial at Teagasc, Johnstown Castle, which provides an insight as to how different fertiliser types/formulations have performed under the same conditions and with N applied at the same time and at the same rate. 

 

Niamh discusses ways to reduce demand by scanning early to remove empty cows and cull ewes and the introducing of creep to lambs and weanlings.  

 

Coming into August, it is important to focus on building grass covers and Niamh explains the ways farmers can achieve this, as well as discussing fertiliser plans and the need to target slurry to replenish offtakes and completing fodder budget. 

 

Niamh then finishes up discussing her key tips for management in the coming weeks.

 

Further information is available at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/

 

Subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

As we head into peak lambing season we also start to encounter flock health issues on farms and on this week’s OviCast is Dr Shane Mc McGettrick of the Department of Agriculture Regional Veterinary Lab (RVL) in Sligo to discuss this issue in more detail. Shane starts by encouraging farmers to submit samples where they encounter problems with abortions or increased mortality this spring and to identify the cause and start to address the issue. Shane describes the common issues they see in the lab at this stage of the season and takes us through the submission procedure for samples and what is required as well as discussing the timeline from submission of samples until results are available. As some of the conditions that cause issues on farms are zoonotic, particularly in the case of a number of the abortive agents, Shane highlights why we need to take extra care to protect human health. He also discusses why aborted ewes should be isolated form the main flocks early to minimise spread and finally, he urges caution when considering purchasing foster ewes and introducing them to the flock during this busy period. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Anthelminthic resistance is one of the key challenges for the sheep industry and will require a change in some of the routine control practices for the coming seasons. To expand further on this subject, Ciaran was joined by Teagasc Researcher Dr Orla Keane who discusses four key areas that will help to maintain a susceptible worm population and prolong the efficacy of commonly used anthelminthic products. These are: 1. Don’t dose adult ewes unless there is a demonstrated need 2. Use only products from group 1-BZ (white drenches) to treat Nematodirus in lambs 3. Quarantine drench - prevent ‘buying in’ resistance on arrival to the farm 4. Drench test/Faecal egg count Orla shares her insights on why each of these steps will have a beneficial impact on the rate of development of anthelminthic resistance. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Having access to some source of hot water in the farmyard is essential, especially in spring. 

 

For some farms however, there is a requirement to supply larger volumes either for artificial rearing of lambs or calves or for general farm use. 

 

So what are the options and which suits best? This week’s OviCast is joined by Teagasc Researcher, Dr John Upton, to shed some light on this topic. 

 

John first outlines the various heat sources that are available and emphasises the importance of knowing what the individual demand is on the farm. 

 

He discusses the capacity, energy efficiency and running costs of the various heating systems before offering some tips on the maintenance of these systems and highlighting some factors that will influence their longevity on farms.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sean Godfrey from Sheep Ireland is on this week’s OviCast podcast with an update on what’s happening in the Central Progeny Test (CPT) farms.  

 

Sean first explains the role of the CPT flocks and the other sources of commercial data that goes into the evaluations. 

 

He discusses the number of ewes and rams involved, plus the mating strategy on the farms from the use of cervical AI to mob mating and the role of genotyping to identify parentage. 

 

With a lot of traits being measured on the farm Sean takes us through some of the key measurements and why they’re an invaluable source of maternal data. 

 

Finally, Sean discusses performance recording, highlighting the benefits of signing up for LambPlus for pedigree and commercial breeders alike. 

 

Find our more information on Sheep Ireland’s website: https://www.sheep.ie/

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. James O’Shaughnessy from the Department of Agriculture’s Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins us on the latest OviCast to discuss this year’s Nematodirus forecast. 

 

James first explains the condition, symptoms and we discuss the high risk periods around the country. 

 

We discuss treatment, some of the factors that may lead to a higher challenge on farms this spring, and we also discuss the potential risk of concurrent infection with coccidia.

 

For more information on the forecast can be found here:
https://bit.ly/Nematodirus_Forecast_2024

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With the cold snap this week, there’s a bonus OviCast episode with sheep specialists Damian Costello and Michael Gottstein sharing valuable insights on managing sheep farms during the present conditions. 

 

Damian addresses challenges such as water supply and handling stock, emphasising the importance of safety during this difficult period and highlighting key considerations for farmers. 

 

Michael discusses the impact on livestock, providing guidance on managing hypothermic lambs and the importance of supplementing feed. 

 

He concludes by encouraging farmers to check in on their neighbours and reaching out for assistance when needed during this period.

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With lambing finishing up, this week’s OviCast podcast recaps on how well flocks have performed and where improvements can be made and to discuss this in more detail Ciarán Lynch is joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc. Michael starts by outlining why it’s important to take stock of how flock has performed during lambing when it’s fresh in our minds and complete a simple lambing review. He discusses some of the key performance targets including issues around barrenness and ewes not rearing lambs and what follow up actions farmers can take before moving on to discuss issues around prolapse and the short and longer term actions that need to be addressed. Michael also discusses flock health in particular antibiotic use in lambs and ways in which this can be drastically reduced. Sticking with the lambing theme Michael talks about the impact of nutritional and other contributing factors on lambing difficulty, the level of assistance during lambing and what strategies can be implemented to improve this situation. The interview finishes up with Michael highlighting how addressing some of the simple management changes from now on can improve the outcome of next year’s lambing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Jayne Harkness-Bones, Depot Manager with Ulster Wool, joins us for this week’s OviCast to discuss the factors that influence the quality of wool, the challenges in the marketplace in recent years and what happens to the wool from purchase until it reaches market. 

 

We talk about shearing, wool handling and storage, with Jayne highlighting some simple practices to make the process easier and improve the quality of the wool harvested. 

 

In the latter half of the podcast, Jayne who is also a council member of the Irish Grown Wool Council, discusses some of the work they have been involved in to realise the potential of wool, develop further opportunities and provide support to the industry. 

 

For more information on some of the items discussed see the following links:

https://irishgrownwoolcouncil.com/

Preparing for Shearing: https://youtu.be/QiyvrF9g-dc 

Top tips on how to harvest wool at shearing time: https://youtu.be/qO8HJdMsmME 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

On this week’s OviCast podcast Ciarán Lynch caught up with Dr Dave Leathwick following this year’s National Sheep Conference. 

Dave, who is principal scientist in parasitology at the Pastoral Agricultural Research Centre in New Zealand, has for almost 35 years been researching nematode parasites of grazing livestock, with a focus on their biology and control, and the development and management of anthelmintic resistance. 

Dave discusses the challenge posed by anthelminthic resistance in New Zealand and the factors contributing to its development. 

In a wide ranging discussion Dave explains in detail the impact of dosing adult ewes for worms has on the development of resistance. 

He finishes up discussing how worm control will require a change in mind-set going forward to maintain a susceptible worm population on farms. 

Read Dave’s paper from the National Sheep Conference here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2023/National-Sheep-Conferences-2023.pdf

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

When new animals arrive on farm they can potentially bring some unwanted health issues with them. To minimise the risk, it’s important there is a quarantine procedure in place and on this week’s OviCast, Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciarán Lynch to discuss this issue in more detail. Michael starts by emphasising why this is an important consideration for any flock owner. He discusses the importance of inspecting the sheep at purchase and asking some basic questions of the seller about the health status of their flock. Some preparation is needed to correctly quarantine animals on arrival and Michael highlights the need to house these animals for 48 hours and correctly treat them for foot issues, internal and external parasites and Michael and Ciarán discuss the treatment options that are currently available. They move on to discuss turnout post treatment and why it’s a good idea to keep these animals separate from the main flocks for a number of weeks after purchase. Finally, Michael highlights the need to enrol these sheep in the flock’s health plan for the farm ensuring they receive the appropriate vaccinations. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week’s OviCast is the second part of the discussion on colostrum with Professor Tommy Boland and he discusses how colostrum impacts the lamb. Tommy starts by explaining the various roles colostrum has once it is consumed by the newborn lamb and how each of these affects lamb survival and performance. He highlights the importance of ensuring the lamb consumes sufficient quantities of colostrum quickly after birth and how this affects the transfer of immunity from the ewe to the lamb. Tommy discusses the colostrum alternatives that are available and what role they play, and why caution is needed when using them. Finally, Tommy offers his insights on how colostrum intake not only influences lamb survival and passive immunity,, but also plays a role in the early development of the rumen and impacts on subsequent lamb performance. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

A lot of flocks have started the process of selecting their replacement ewe lambs for this season and with this in mind we’re joined by Dr Fiona McGovern who shares some of her insights in the area. We start off by discussing some recent findings on the factors influencing ewe longevity and then move on to discuss the genetic component of a number of the key traits that influence production such as: lambing and mothering ability, lameness, mastitis and others. Fiona discusses why a replacement policy should have scope for continual selection and culling during the year and how to use records and simple identifiers to target underperformer or problem sheep in the flock. Fiona also describes the variations she has seen from the detailed recording on maternal traits in the INZAC flock over the past number of years. Finally, Fiona highlights the need to make use of genetic indices when selecting sires for future replacements, particularly when trying to improve flock performance for those hard-to-see traits. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. 

Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers, and managing supply for the weeks ahead. 

We discuss the autumn closing plan, graze outs and managing clover swards at closing.

Finally, Niamh discusses upcoming deadlines for FYM and lime and Potassium applications. 

Link to the autumn closing planner: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdf

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, has her monthly update on the OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. 

 

Niamh discusses the closing plan on farms, grazing conditions and the impact of re-grazing paddocks on spring growth. 

 

We discuss the variation in performance of individual fields on farms and some investments to improve productivity next year.  

 

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Vet Tommy Heffernan, aka Tommy the Vet, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss joint ill infection in lambs. Tommy starts by explaining the condition in a bit more detail and then discusses the bacteria that can cause the condition and their potential sources. Tommy describes the presentation of the condition, routes of transfer and how that infection affects the joint. He also highlights how doubling down on the basics of hygiene and colostrum management have a big impact on reducing risk of the condition. For treatment, Tommy offers his insights on effective treatment methods before finishing up with him urging farmers to revisit the basics and look at making the overall system easier to operate during lambing. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep Specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us on this week’s OviCast to discuss weaning options on farms. 

 

We discuss the current situation on farms, challenges with grass quality and why weaning now is beneficial. 

 

Michael explains the weaning process with some useful tips and management of the ewes and lambs post-weaning. 

 

We finish up discussing some of the areas we need to address at the moment from parasite burden to mineral supplementation to tackling lameness. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Co. Leitrim native John O’Connell who runs a mixed sheep and dairy contract rearing system in Ballinamore joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast. John who is also a participant in the BETTER farm Sheep Programme starts by discussing the importance of having ewes in the right body condition and maintaining this during mid-pregnancy. John discusses his scanning results and subsequent management. He also explains the role of high-quality silage in his system and the ration specification he is using this year. John puts great emphasis on ensuring ewes have sufficient quantities of high-quality colostrum and takes us through his feeding regime, in particular how he manages singles to facilitate cross fostering. He moves on to discuss managing pregnant ewe lambs in his flock before finishing up explaining how these and triplet rearing ewes are managed post-lambing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

As part of Sustainability Week, on this week’s episode of OviCast we chat to signpost programme participant, John O’Connell, to discuss how he has implemented the 12 steps to reduce gaseous emissions from his farming system. 

 

We chat about the various measures he has implemented from addressing soil fertility to better grassland management.

 

John explains the importance of animal health planning for his breeding programme and we finish up discussing his experience of over-sowing clover and the role he sees for it on his farm. 

 

For more information on the 12 Steps:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/environment/climate-change/signpost-programme/12-Steps-to-Reduce-Gaseous-Emissions-on-Sheep-Farms.pdf

 

And to find out more about the Signpost programme go to:
https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/climate-change--air-quality/signpost-programme/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

In this bonus episode from a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar, you'll hear from veterinarian Charles Chavasse who is the Area Veterinary Manager with Zoetis. 

 

Charles describes what the different clostridial diseases are and how they affect the animal. 

 

He goes on to explain the vaccination process adding some useful tips and highlights some common pitfalls. 

 

Charles also takes questions submitted by the audience on the night and a full recording of the webinar will be available on the Teagasc YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/user/TeagascMedia 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Emer Kennedy joins Ciarán Lynch on this latest OviCast podcast to talk about some key aspects of colostrum management on farms. 

 

Emer explains the importance of colostrum in newborn ruminants and discusses the importance of hygiene during the collection process, storage both fresh and frozen of the colostrum, as well as the correct thawing procedure. 

 

Emer highlights the impact management has on colostrum quality during each of these tasks and offers some useful practical tips that farmers can implement this spring.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Frank Campion joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss grazing management on forage brassicas. 

Frank discusses yields and why you should do a feed budget for the crop. We then discuss intakes, utilisation and the factors that influence it. 

Frank also explains fencing, crop allocation and managing in wet conditions and he has advice for managing the crop in frosty conditions. 

We finish up discussing the transition of the crop with finishing lambs and pregnant ewes.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. James O’Shaughnessy from the Dept. of Agriculture Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast for a broad discussion on the risk fluke poses this winter. 

 

James describes the impact it has on animal health from acute to chronic infection and discusses the forecasted fluke risk for this winter and how that can vary across the country and amongst farms with James explaining detection, sources of information and the importance of farm history. 

 

Treatment options and the importance of choosing an appropriate flukicide for this point of the season are highlighted before finishing up discussing rumen fluke with James explaining the risk it can pose.  

 

For further information:
https://animalhealthireland.ie/resources/?resource_type[]=documents&resource-tag[]=faecal-sampling

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

 

Seamus McMenamin, Sheep Sector Manager with Bord Bia, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss current trends and the outlook for the sheep market in the coming months. 

 

Seamus begins by discussing current trade and throughput this year to date. Since spring, Seamus explains the impact reopening has had on lamb consumption both on the domestic and international market as well as the trends in international trade. 

 

He then discusses the prospects for the lambs and ewe trade over the coming weeks and months. 

 

Finally, Seamus highlights the potential market for organic lamb and some of the challenges both the organic and conventional lamb trade could face going forwards. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

 

With mating finished up on the majority of lowland farms our attention turns to an often overlooked area of ewe management during mid pregnancy and to discuss its importance, Professor Tommy Boland from UCD joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast. Tommy starts by discussing the importance of assessing ewe condition and why assessing ewe condition is a key management tool but one that’s not used frequently enough at farm level. He discusses the variation in ewe condition that we see within flocks and the importance of monitoring and managing the ewe’s body reserves during their period. He also discusses the effects of ewe condition on performance particularly during early lactation and the carryover effects for the rest of the season. He then finishes up discussing flock management during the coming weeks with Tommy offerings his views on the need to address any deficit in ewe condition before ewes enter late pregnancy. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

David Coen from Sheep Ireland is on this week’s OviCast to talk about progress in breeding in the hill sector. 

David discusses the impact hill genetics has on the national flock, SIS scheme and ram eligibility.  

We discuss the work by the 17 breeding groups over the past year to get rams genotyped and the impact this has had on developing flock books. 

Finally we finish up with David discussing how breeders can build on this going forwards to improve genetic improvement in hill flocks. 

Some links discussed in this week’s episode to search for potential rams or to sign up to Sheep Ireland are:

Ram Search:

https://appsh.sheep.ie/ram-search

Ram sales/catalogues:

https://www.sheep.ie/?page_id=29

Sign up online form:

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=AH5m37xZikKh2Tgra-Oid02OFzIK2SJKuUbHvUCuGqJURVpMT1ZLRU02RkxPTDdGTkhFRFNKNFpLTS4u

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Frank Campion joins us on this episode of OviCast with an update on lamb performance and management on the BETTER farms. 

 

Frank starts off describing the bounce back in lamb growth rate on the farms in May and June. We tease this out discussing grassland management, parasite challenge and the impact of early weaning. 

 

We move on to discuss the current state of play on the farms with regards to weaning weight, drafting the implications of carrying increased numbers for some into the second half of the season. 

 

In the latter part of this episode we talk about some management aspects over the coming weeks, finishing groups, grassland, fertiliser, forage crops and parasite control.   

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With the Teagasc National Sheep Conference just around the corner, this week’s OviCast was joined by Dr. Fiona McGovern to give us a preview of what’s in store this year. Fiona starts by discussing the format and topics covered in this year’s conference which takes place online over two nights on Tuesday and Thursday the 25th and 27th of January at 8pm. Fiona and Ciarán discuss the line-up of speakers with Fiona giving the highlights of the papers on both nights. Finally, they finish up with Fiona explaining how you can register for this year’s conference. To find out more and register please visit: www.teagasc.ie/sheepcon22 For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Tomás O’Leary who is farming outside Killarney in Co. Kerry joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Tomás who is a participant on the BETTER Farm Sheep Programme has always joined his ewe lambs and managed them alongside his mature ewes. He shares his experience on how to manage these ewes to achieve a high output. He also discusses his selection criteria to ensure his replacement ewe lambs are suitable to join, ram choice and joining period length. Tomás then detailed his scan result this year and feeding regime from housing right through to late pregnancy. He discussed management around lambing time and plans for turnout and highlights why he supplements this group post lambing and how he manages them from turnout to weaning, highlighting the importance of monitoring their condition. See more about his breeding policy here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcuvJqj3FeM For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Peadar Kearney from Co Louth who is running a high output sheep only system where measuring and managing play a key role, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Peadar is also a participant on the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme and gives a quick recap on how lambing went this year, what has happened with the lambs in the interim and how he monitors lamb performance. He moves on to discuss the grass situation on the farm and the growth rates in recent weeks. Peadar describes the grazing groups on the farm, his pre and post grazing management and the importance of achieving residuals and managing re-growths. He then explains the grazing infrastructure, his paddock system and the use of temporary fencing and the role that has had in maintaining grass supply for his flock. Peadar also discusses the importance of grass measuring and using PastureBase in his system to give him the information to manage grass supply. As Peadar is one of the participating flocks in the OviData programme working with Sheep Ireland, he finishes up discussing the kind of information they are recording on ewes for the upcoming 7 week weight. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Kevin Mc Dermott, Sheep Ireland manager, joins us on this week’s OviCast to talk about the genotyped ram task that forms part of the Sheep Improvement Scheme. 

 

Kevin first explains what’s involved in the task for lowland and hill producers.  He talks about ram eligibility and how to identify these rams using the Sheep Ireland ram search tool or the sales catalogues. 

 

Finally, he discusses the numbers of eligible rams that are available via the Sheep Ireland ram search at: 

ramsearch.ie 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week’s OviCast, we’re joined by Seamus Fagan from the Department of Agriculture’s regional veterinary lab in Athlone. 

 

As a follow-on from his talk at the recent Sheep Conference, we discuss the importance of records to highlight flock health issues on farm and to help provide a better flock history, particularly in the case of abortion. We discuss the submission process and the timeline for results. 

 

We also discuss some of the challenges seen in the lab this spring with a notable fluke challenge present on farms. 

 

Finally we finish up discussing some of the findings from the ongoing thin ewe survey.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week’s OviCast is a farmer focus interview with Brian Nicholson who farms just outside of Johnstown in Co Kilkenny. Brian runs a large-scale sheep flock and is a participant CPT flock with Sheep Ireland. Brian discusses sales in this year’s lamb crop and his plans for finishing the remaining lambs this autumn before moving on to discuss the breeding plan for the farm and he takes us through the various breeding groups from the commercial flock of 290ewes to the ewes that will be AI’D and natural mated as part of the central progeny test programme with Sheep Ireland. Brian discusses the various breeds used and how he manages this aspect of his flock. He moves on to talk about his grazing management for the autumn and how he used forage rape to winter part of his flock and how it fits into his overall system. Finally, Brian discusses why he has moved away from joining ewe lambs to lamb at 1 year old opting to run them dry and how they are used as a grazing management group the following year. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Ensuring lambs receive adequate colostrum is vital to get them off to the best possible start and making sure ewes have adequate supplies is the starting point for this. In a 2-part special, Professor Tommy Boland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss this important topic in more detail. Firstly, Tommy focuses on the factors that influence colostrum production in the ewe and he explains the various functions of colostrum. Tommy discusses how production starts and the quantity a ewe needs to produce with Tommy explaining the various nutritional factors that have an impact on the quantity and quality of colostrum a ewe produces. He also explains the effects that ewe body condition, age and breed have on colostrum production and details some of reasons for poor milk let down in ewes post-lambing. Finally, Tommy discusses why the importance of getting management right not only ensures adequate colostrum production, but also sets the ewe up for early lactation. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast to discuss the effects of autumn shearing on the performance of ewes, ewe lambs and store/finishing lambs. With the cost of shearing versus return from wool at a low point, Tim starts off by emphasising why it’s important for producers to get a performance benefit from it where possible. Tim takes us through the results of many studies conducted in the area, examining fertility traits, subsequent progeny performance, growth rate and carcass gain. He then outlines where the measurable gains are and dispels some of the perceived performance benefits. Aside from the performance differences they also discuss management benefits to shearing at this stage of the season finishing up with Tim’s views on how late in the season he would consider shearing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

On this week’s OviCast we’re taking a grazing focus and are joined by Philip Creighton. 

 

We discuss grass supply and sward quality and some of the factors that are influencing it at the moment. 

 

We move on to  discuss management options for the coming weeks and finish up the episode discussing fertiliser applications. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week’s OviCast episode, Ciarán Lynch caught up with Prof. Paul Keynon, Head of School, School of Agriculture & Environment/Professor in Sheep Husbandry at Massey University in New Zealand to discuss the option of early weaning as a management tool for certain sheep systems. 

 

Paul defines what early weaning is and at what age and weight lambs need to be for it to be considered.  

 

They discuss when and where it could be considered an option for flocks and what impact it can have on their system and Paul talks about post weaning management, highlighting the need to ensure high quality feed is available to ensure these weaned lambs perform. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With the grazing season well underway, on the latest OviCast episode Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr Philip Creighton who highlights the need to focus on grassland management for the coming weeks to maximise lamb performance. They discuss the current grazing conditions on farms around the country and the impact opening covers has had on grass growth during March. Philip moves on to discuss forming grazing groups and what impact that has on grass and animal performance. He then outlines the current grazing targets and the importance of achieving residuals to setup the sward for subsequent grazing rotations. They move on to discuss fertiliser application for the second round to meet rising demand and finish up discussing target farm covers for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With another college year starting off, Emma Tobin from Kildalton Agricultural College joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to highlight the different full time and part time courses that are available. 

 

Emma discusses the blended approach to learning from the classroom to the practical side of flock management as well as some of the newer technologies they use. 

 

She also discusses the college sheep flock and its management and how it forms a vital part of student education before finishing up to explain the role of on-farm placement and how it provides students with an excellent opportunity to gain first-hand experience.

 

You can find out more about Teagasc Kildalton here: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/education/teagasc-colleges/kildalton/

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

On this week’s OviCast we’re joined by post-graduate student, Mark Dolan, to discuss different aspects of management of forage brassicas. 

 

Mark gives us some background to some of the work he has been involved in using forage brassicas to finish store lambs. 

 

We discuss yields of the different crops, utilisation rates and the factors that influence them and how they have adapted management during periods of poor weather conditions. 

 

We finish up discussing lamb kill out on the crops and the impact of regular drafting on grazing days. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast 

Farmers should consider examining the financial performance of their farm in more detail by completing a profit monitor and on this week’s OviCast podcast, Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc tells Ciarán Lynch why it’s important. Firstly, Michael outlines how to complete a profit monitor and what information is required. He explains how the income and costs are classified and the difference in variable and fixed costs. He then discusses how to use this information as an opportunity to examine and improve the business and it also allows a farmer to benchmark farm performance against others and set targets for the business. Finally, Michael discusses possible investments that could be made to improve the business. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Tim Keady is on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss feeding the ewe during mid-pregnancy and its impact on productivity. 

 

Tim outlines the energy requirements of the ewe during this phase, we discuss the impact of grass supply and feed value in outdoor scenarios and the impact of different qualities of silages indoors. 

 

Tim also talks about mobilising reserves, potential condition score loss and the impact that can have on next year’s lamb performance. 

 

We finish up discussing feed management introducing supplementation to thinner ewes and planning ahead for next year.  

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Advisor, Serena Gibbons, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss farm safety this winter. 

Serena first discusses the recent data from the Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) highlighting the number and location of accidents on farms. 

She highlights the extra challenges the recent cold snap poses and has some practical tips to deal with it as well as the need for some caution around routine tasks. 

With a lot of work conducted in the evenings in farm yards, Serena details the importance of good yard lighting and why some jobs are better suited to daylight hours. 

Serena also talks about the need for added safety around machinery during the winter period both for the operator and other individuals on the farm, with Serena highlighting some safety aspects in relation to road use that are particularly important at this stage of the year. 

Finally, Serena explains the importance of having your mobile phone on you and making others aware of where you will be while working alone should anything go wrong. 

For more information and useful links please visit: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/farm-health--safety/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

As liver fluke is a large risk at the moment, Teagasc’s Dr Orla Keane joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss selecting the appropriate treatment for this stage of the season. Firstly Orla gives a quick recap on the risk that fluke poses and the stages of its development. She discusses the various classes of flukicide available with Orla explaining what stage of fluke they are suitable to treat and the role others could play later in the season. Orla highlights the challenge of using combination fluke and wormers as part of routine fluke treatment in adult sheep and why it’s better to use a targeted flukicide; she also discusses the situations where these combinations could be put to better use. Finally, Orla highlights the need to use a flukicide that targets the immature stage of liver fluke at this point in the season. A summary of flukicides licensed for sheep in Republic of Ireland can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Products-licensed-for-control-of-parasites-in-sheep.pdf For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With ram sales in full swing, Kevin Mc Dermott, Sheep Ireland Manager, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss using genetic information when making your purchasing decisions. 

 

First, Kevin highlights the benefits genetic improvement has in a flock as he discusses the results from on-farm validations. 

 

There is a discussion on what information is available for recorded rams in sales catalogues with Kevin highlighting and explaining the key areas to focus on. 

 

With over 1000 pedigree breeders recorded in LambPlus, Kevin explains the online ram search tool and how it can be used to identify rams right across the country. 

 

Finally, Kevin discusses this year’s sheep Ireland multibreed rams sale. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: 

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

On this week’s OviCast we talk to Dr Tim Keady about the importance of silage testing and what the results mean. 

 

Tim emphasises the importance of getting a silage test conducted correctly early to know the feed value of your winter forage. 

 

He explains the variation in results nationally, what each of the measures mean and most importantly, the implications for feeding. 

 

We discuss how the results could highlight areas to focus on for next year’s silage harvest. 

 

We finish up with Tim discussing the implications of feeding different feed value silages has on animal performance and the amount of supplementation required. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast 

Health and Safety Specialist Francis Bligh joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with advice on safety around machinery and on farm. Firstly, Francis discusses the HSA figures for accidents that have occurred in agriculture and the particular trends in the sheep sector during the previous 12 months - a stark reminder of the dangers encountered in the industry. Francis highlights some of the steps that can be taken to improve personal safety and how to reduce the risk of zoonotic infection from livestock. He then discusses safety around machinery and safe transport on roads, with Francis highlighting some of the risks associated with ATVs in particular. Francis then moves on to farmyard safety offering his advice on some areas to focus on during the winter months and he also outlines the TAMS grants and capital allowances available for investments in farm safety equipment. Finally, he finishes up by discussing farmers’ own health and mental wellbeing with Francis offering some sound advice in this area. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

David Coen from Sheep Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain genotyping rams. 

 

David outlines the benefits of genotyping rams and the kind of information it can provide from scrapie genotypes to parentage verification to genomic evaluations.  David and Ciarán also discuss the processes and costs involved for producers. 

 

David then explains the ram genotype task in the Proposed DAFM Sheep Improvement Scheme highlighting the criteria for both lowland and hill flocks. 

 

Finally, in relation to hill flocks, David discusses how genotyping could lay the foundation for breed improvement programmes within hill breeds. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. 

 

Niamh also highlights opening covers on farms and current growth rates, plus we discuss fertiliser prices and targeted application before finishing up with grazing management.

 

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Michael Gottstein, Teagasc’s Head of Sheep joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss fluke control this autumn. Michael begins by describing how liver fluke affects the sheep and what the high-risk periods for fluke infection are. He then moves on to discuss control options with Michael explaining the difference between the various categories of flukicide that are available and why not all are suitable at particular stages of the year. As with other anthelmintics, resistance is an issue, which is discussed in a bit more detail with Michael offering his views on how this could be delayed on farms. There is a discussion then on rumen fluke and what risk it poses on sheep farms before finishing up with Michael summarising the key points to consider in relation to fluke on farms for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Grassland researcher, Dr Philip Creighton, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss various aspects of grassland management this spring. Philip starts by discussing current grass availability on farm with the higher than average winter growth. He moves on to the topic of fertiliser purchases this spring and Philip emphasises the need to complete a budget for the fertiliser spend on the farm this year. Philip explains the impact that timing, conditions and grass covers have on response rates for fertiliser this spring and he also discusses tailoring fertiliser application rates depending on stocking rate and demand on farm. With producers considering alternative feed supplies, Philip highlights the pitfalls of relying on purchased concentrate to make up the shortfall in feed supply where fertiliser isn’t applied. Philip also discusses using available slurry and FYM and why compound P & K will need to be applied on recent reseeds, where clover has been established, and low indexed silage ground where needed. He encourages farmers to consider conducting a soil test this year and to apply lime where needed. Finally, Philip highlights how getting grazing groups established early will be key to managing supply this spring with reduced fertiliser input – a topic OviCast will revisit as spring progresses. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr James O’Shaughnessy from the Dept. of Agriculture Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss Nematodirus disease in lambs. James starts by describing the life cycle of Nematodirus and how it differs from other stomach worms. He discusses how it affects lambs and the symptoms to watch out for and he also discusses the limitations of faecal egg counts for this condition. With the recent release of this year’s Nematodirus forecast, James explains how to use this information and how prevailing weather conditions can affect this from year to year. James moves on to discuss treatment options, offering some insight on the choice and timing of treatment before then discussing the risk of concurrent infection with coccidiosis and how to approach this. Nematodirus can cause severe damage to young lambs and James advocates making use of the regional veterinary labs where sudden losses occur to confirm the cause. Finally, James highlights the importance of correct dosing technique when treating for Nematodirus. The 2022 Nematodirus forecast can be found here: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/da3e5-department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marines-2022-nematodirus-forecast/#:~:text=The%20maximum%20Nematodirus%20egg%20hatching,term%20average%20of%20soil%20temperatures For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep Specialists, Michael Gottstein and Damian Costello, are on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the key management tasks to do on farms at present. 

 

We discuss fertiliser application, planning for silage and grazing management and we look at the scenarios where supplementation is needed. 

 

In the second half we switch to dealing with the various health challenges highlighting the continued risk of grass tetany, treating for Nematodirus and Coccidia. We also discuss the challenge mastitis poses in ewes at the moment and the need to treat early where scald appears in lambs. 

 

More information about what was discussed can be found here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep/fertiliser-grassland-and-supplementation-advice-for-sheep-farmers.php

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the importance of getting ewes in the right condition at joining. Frank outlines how to assess condition, what it equates to in terms of live weight and the time needed to increase ewe condition. There is also a discussion on the factors influencing condition managing thin ewes separately and culling ewes that fail to improve in ewe condition. Finally, Dr. Campion explains the carryover effects of condition at joining on the productivity of the ewe the following year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

After a difficult number of weeks, conditions appear to be turning the corner providing an opportunity to get grazing back on track, and on this week’s OviCast, we’re joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss some of the steps needed over the coming weeks. 

 

Philip starts by discussing the impact recent conditions have had on sheep systems.  He discusses grazing targets, fertiliser type and application rates for the coming weeks, emphasising the need to boost supplies during a period of high demand. 

 

Philip highlights need to plan for making a proportion of high quality silage and replenishing stocks that were depleted this spring. 

 

Finally, he discusses grazing groups, batching up and residence periods in grazing paddocks. 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep enterprise leader, Dr Philip Creighton, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss planning ahead for this autumn. 

 

We discuss the impact poor grazing conditions has had on lamb performance this year and the knock-on effect this has on management for the autumn. Philip emphasises the importance of accessing grass supply and increased demand on farms. 

 

We discuss grass growth rates, fertiliser applications and building covers as we move into the autumn. 

 

We finish up with Philip discussing the need to put plans in place for finishing lambs and ensuring there is sufficient grass covers heading into September. 

 

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss how to stay ahead of potential issues in the flock post-turnout.

Michael provides insights into the current situation on farms and shares practical advice for maintaining performance, especially where grass supplies are tight. 

He explains why managing a separate group of problem ewes and lambs can be a beneficial strategy.

We also cover key health concerns, including the treatment and prevention of grass tetany, as well as common challenges farmers may face - ranging from mastitis and lameness to coccidiosis in lambs.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Michael Gottstein, Teagasc's Head of Sheep, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the new Sheep Improvement Scheme launched by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. 

 

Michael starts by outlining the timeframe for the scheme and the payments available.  He discusses how to apply for the scheme and the options for new entrants. 

 

He explains how the reference number is calculated for each flock and discusses the tasks involved for both lowland and hill farmers, detailing the new genotyped ram task and how this will operate. 

 

Finally, Michael reminds producers about the application process and to apply in time before the closing date.

 

For further information: 

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/98a53-sheep-improvement-scheme/

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
 https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week’s OviCast focuses on a number of aspects of store lambs finishing with Prof. Michael Diskin sheep enterprise leader in Teagasc and Michael discusses the store lamb market this year and the renewed interest in this area. With the change in weather in recent weeks we discuss some of the key considerations for housing, ration composition and building up of feeding levels and general advice for housed lambs. There have been a number of large-scale finishing studies and Michael outlines the level of feed intake and performance to expect from various types of lambs on an intensive feeding system as well as target carcass ranges and expected kill-outs. He then discusses the management of long keep lambs on farms and the level of supplement needed to maintain performance. Michael also discusses the impact of shearing on performance and importance of CLP and highlights some of the work conducted on the light lamb carcass and how that market has developed during the past few years. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Co. Kildare sheep and beef farmer, James Johnston, and his Teagasc advisor Dr Rachel Taylor join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to give an insight into his system, grassland management and how he is addressing some of the challenges going forwards. James first outlines his farming system before discuss grazing groups and the use of temporary fencing, fertiliser and soil fertility. Rachel and James outline the plans for this year’s silage crop, the importance of completing a fodder budget and the role high quality silage has for the winter ahead. Finally, James outlines how he is incorporating red clover into his system in a new reseed and his plans for over sowing white clover into targeted areas each year going forwards. For those interested in completing a fodder budget that Rachel outlined can do so here: http://interactive.teagasc.ie/Open/FeedChecker For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Noirín McHugh and postgraduate student Edel O’Connor join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the ongoing project examining methane emissions in sheep. Noirín first highlights the importance of this work in the current climate, while Edel explains how they are using portable accumulation chambers to measure emissions from up to 72 sheep per day in Teagasc Athenry and on commercial farms. Edel explains how much methane different ages of sheep emit and how this compares to other livestock while they discuss the variation observed in the level of emissions from sheep and Noirín explains how they have collected records on over 7000 sheep and examined the underlying genetic component. She describes how this will be incorporated into the Sheep Ireland Index in the future to breed lower emitting sheep similar to what has happening in New Zealand. Finally Noirín acknowledges the support to get this project off the ground which is one of the first of its kind in the northern hemisphere. Find out more about the project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgdlLaDjiPU For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Following on from the previous episode, Ciarán Lynch is re-joined by Dr. Tim Keady to discuss some of the various factors that influence silage digestibility. Tim covers a wide range of factors from harvest date and pre-closing management to heading date and sward type and he also discusses the pros and some cons to wilting. Tim explains the potential to make high quality later in the season and offers some tips to achieve this. He discusses the impact of poor preservation and the role of additives with Tim explaining how these work. He also highlights the impact of chop length on stock performance. Finally, Tim summarises the key points to consider to produce high feed value silage. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week on OviCast, I got the opportunity to sit down with father and son duo, Eddie and Aidan Connell, who farm at Clonbullogue, Co Offaly, and who are hosting this year’s Irish Grassland sheep event. 

 

The father and son partnership are running a 400 ewe mid-season flock, finishing upwards of 150 bulls and grow winter barley and maize for their own use. 

 

Eddie and Aidan talk about how each of the enterprises operate and the integrated nature of the farm. 

 

We discuss some of the challenges this spring and the carry-over impacts of last year’s drought on flock productivity.  

 

We discuss grassland management, paddock setup and silage and the impact on lamb performance. 

 

With a lot of stock purchased on the farm each year, Eddie talks about the importance of a good vaccination programme for the purchased ewes and weanlings each autumn. 

 

Managing the workload on the farm is also important and Aidan talks about the sheep shed they constructed in 2018, some of the key adaptions made to it as well as upgrades made to their handling system to improve overall labour efficiency on the farm. 

 

For more details of Irish grassland Association sheep event go to:

https://www.irishgrassland.ie/event-detail/sheep-event/

 

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss mineral supplementation in sheep flocks. A common practice on many farms during the season, Michael starts by discussing some of the findings of a recent study that has looked at this in more detail. He discusses the extent of mineral usage in Irish flocks and some of the drivers behind the decision process of why farmers are using mineral supplementation. He also discusses some of the key minerals that influence production and clinical signs of mineral deficiencies. Focusing in particular on cobalt, Michael describes how it influences lamb performance. Finally, he explains why it is important to see a performance benefit from the investment in supplementation to offset the cost and effort involved and how you might go about doing this. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Pre-breeding vaccination is one way to reduce lambs losses and barren rates next spring and is a key point highlighted by Sarah Campbell veterinary advisor with MSD Animal Health who joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain in more detail. Sarah starts by highlighting the need to identify the cause of abortion through the veterinary laboratory’s and highlights the common causes reported on farm. She discusses the two most common causes of abortion namely Enzootic abortion and Toxoplasmosis in more detail explaining how these are spread and how the timing of infection effects the ewe. In both cases there is a vaccine available and the vaccination programme that can be implemented this autumn is discussed. As with any vaccine correct storage, handling and administration is an important consideration and Sarah highlights how this can affect vaccine efficacy and the key areas to focus on. Finally as these vaccines have to be given a number of weeks in advance of the breeding season Sarah encourages farmers to order their vaccines in time and plan their vaccination programme prior to breeding. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast