Ensuring optimum nutrition in the pre-tupping period and during early pregnancy is essential in order to maximise economic return. Importance must be placed on ensuring ewes are in the right body condition score (BCS) to maximise fertility, ovulation and conception rates, and to reduce embryonic loss. In general, reliance on grazing alone is not sufficient to meet trace element requirements.
Ewe & Tup Condition
When selecting breeding ewes and tups, those with health conditions, poor body condition, poor teeth or previous lambing issues should not be included. Vaccinations are critical for disease prevention, and at-risk ewes should be protected from liver fluke and worms. Ram fertility is important too – adequate nutrition supports sperm production, quality and mobility.
BCS – Body Condition Scoring
Targets: lowland ewes 3.5, upland ewes 3, hill ewes 2.5. Assess ewes a good 10-12 weeks before mating to allow time for any changes, then every 2-3 weeks.
Fertility at Tupping - Flushing
Higher nutritional status before tupping increases egg and sperm quality/quantity, reduces embryo reabsorption, and improves lambing percentages. Increasing this plane of nutrition before tupping (flushing) tightens the lambing period.
Benefits of Feeding a Liquid Drench
Ease of use, broad spectrum of ingredients (amino acids, prebiotics, fatty acids, vitamins & minerals), safe & easy to use, targeted nutritional delivery, and accurate delivery of nutrients by weight. Osmonds Oviboost or Pre-Tupping & Pre & Post Lambing Supplement liquid drench both promote performance and fertility at tupping.
If you have any questions, please call our office on 01948 668100, email info@osmonds.co.uk or visit our website to see our whole range of Vitamin, Mineral & Trace Element drenches.
