[Tala Orchard]

One of our first timers has just lambed, twins, however she is not allowing them to feed, She licks them and behaves normal but will not let them suckle. She has milk and have drawn some off for each teat. Even pushed lambs on to teat, they suck but she moves away and will not let them back on.

Suggestion please as to what to do and any ideas why?

[SallyintNorth]

You will have to hold her still while they suckle for the first time or two - it feels funny !  and not all first-timers take to it straight away.

[Marches Farmer]

Look on line for designs for a lamb adopter - you can buy them or make your own as we did.  Basically need a U-shaped slot with a swing-over bar at the top.  You post the ewe's neck into the slot so she can stand up and lie down and put feed and water in front of her.  The lambs are behind her and can suckle when they want.  Alternative is to hold her at regular intervals, preferably diverting her attention with a few sheep nuts while the lambs suckle.  She should settle down in a day or two as she'll realise her udder feels more comfortable after the lambs have suckled.