Creep feeding provides lambs with a high-protein, energy-rich supplementary feed in an area inaccessible to ewes. The primary economic advantage is achieving target weights earlier, improving cash flow and allowing producers to capitalise on peak market prices.
Feed costs and efficiency
The primary cost is the feed itself, typically ranging from £300 to £450 per tonne. Feed conversion efficiency varies but averages 4-5 kg of feed per kg of liveweight gain, influenced by breed, health, and forage quality. If feed costs £400 per tonne and a lamb consumes 30 kg to gain 6 kg, the feed cost per kg of liveweight gain is about £2.00. Comparing this with market prices determines whether the investment is worthwhile.
Benefits to ewes and fertility
Creep feeding reduces lambs’ reliance on milk, easing the ewe’s nutritional demands and helping maintain body condition, particularly in those rearing twins or triplets. Better condition during lactation supports improved fertility, higher ovulation rates, and better embryo quality for the next breeding season. This is especially valuable in systems where ewes rejoin the breeding flock quickly after weaning.
Labour and equipment costs
Beyond feed, labour and equipment must be considered. Purpose-built creep feeders cost £200-£500, while labour is required for monitoring feeders, replenishing feed, and managing access. However, earlier weaning can reduce ewe maintenance costs, offsetting some expenses. Market timing and lamb value The economic success of creep feeding often depends on market timing. Lamb prices peak during seasonal shortages, typically in late spring and early summer. By finishing lambs earlier, producers can benefit from these price spikes. For instance, a 42 kg lamb in June may fetch £7.00 per kg deadweight compared to £6.00 per kg in August. The extra £1 per kg could justify creep feeding costs if weight gains are efficient.
Forage quality and lamb potential
Creep feeding is most valuable when forage limits growth. During dry spells or heavy stocking, lambs may struggle to gain weight on pasture alone. In such cases, supplementary feeding prevents setbacks and maintains steady growth. Fast-growing breeds like Texel or Suffolk crosses typically achieve high feed conversion efficiencies, making creep feeding a sound investment. Slower-growing breeds may not offset the costs unless early finishing commands a price premium.
Health and welfare benefits
Creep feeding supports lamb health by reducing dependence on ewe milk, lowering mastitis risk in ewes and reducing lamb losses due to nutritional stress. Well-fed lambs are also less susceptible to parasites and other health issues, reducing veterinary costs and promoting steady growth.
Whether creep feeding is worthwhile depends on feed costs, market prices, and forage conditions. Careful record-keeping and cost monitoring will ensure it contributes positively to farm profitability. Farmers should evaluate their system’s specific needs to determine if creep feeding aligns with their objectives.