Despite these changes, monitoring and managing a ewe’s body condition score (BCS) throughout the year is still essential. Keeping ewes in the right condition at key times, such as tupping and lambing, can greatly impact the productivity and profitability of the flock. BCS is measured on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being very thin and 5 being very fat, and regular checks can help avoid costly interventions later on.
The reproductive cycle for a ewe begins shortly after lambs are weaned. While it might be easy to overlook ewes during this period, it is crucial for rebuilding their condition after lactation and setting them up for a successful tupping season. Gaining one BCS can take a month or more, requiring 9-20 extra MJ of energy per day. Leaving condition management until tupping is too late.
Ewes should have a BCS of 2.5-3 at tupping to ensure they are in the best shape for reproduction. If the BCS is below 2, their ovulation rates can be significantly reduced, leading to fewer lambs. Before lambing, a BCS of 3-3.5 is recommended, allowing for the natural loss of around 0.5 BCS as the ewe starts lactation, when her energy needs increase dramatically.
There is some evidence to suggest that a small drop in condition during late pregnancy can promote placental growth and improve lambs’ ability to thrive after birth. However, this needs to be carefully managed to avoid any negative effects on lamb development.
Mineral levels in ewes can also influence fertility and lamb growth. Important minerals like iodine, selenium, vitamin E, and cobalt support reproduction and lamb health. Testing ewes, forage, and soils helps build a clear picture of your farm’s mineral status, ensuring the right amount of supplementation is provided. This avoids unnecessary expenses and improves lamb vigour, immune function, and growth rates.
Effective grazing management is key to maintaining ewes’ body condition and mineral supply. Grass should be the main source of feed, and prioritising quality grazing for ewes with lower BCS helps them rebuild condition. Creating a feed budget and managing paddocks to ensure consistent nutrition throughout tupping and pregnancy will keep ewes in good shape and increase overall flock efficiency. Maintaining the ewes condition before weaning is as important, I have seen scanning figures down for autumn lambing flocks this year and most are putting this down to the horrible spring taking more out of the ewes than farmers have realised and therefore not being in a good enough condition score before the rams went in. Every year it is good practice to check ewes and rams for internal parasites (even if you wouldn’t normally). This year worms in adult sheep seems to be more prevalent than expected. Another gathering to take a fec sample/worm and check BCS with hands on is always good as wool can hide the reality and possibly cause problems later on.
While modern techniques may reduce the need for flushing, careful management of BCS, grazing, and minerals remains essential for ensuring the health and productivity of both ewes and lambs.