Author Topic: No buildings? (Read 2476 times)

Mountainwoman · « **on:** November 27, 2015, 10:49:56 pm »

Hi I have probably been spoiled for the last 7 years as I've had great outbuildings to winter my cows in as well as store my tractor, trailer and hay/ straw. We are moving though and looking for a new place. At the moment our top 2 places have land but no outbuildings whatsoever. I have shetland cattle and Hebridean sheep so I know that they are capable of surviving outside but I am just wondering if anyone has experience of managing without any buildings. I know It depends on how well drained the land is and how many stock etc but just looking for some other peoples thoughts on this. Sorry such a rambling post!

Backinwellies · « **Reply #1 on:** November 28, 2015, 07:40:53 am »

Native sheep and cattle were breed to be outdoors so they wont mind. things to be aware of ............ you will need more land per head (and don't underestimate this) fields will get poached.......... think carefully about feeding and how you will manage this (a tractor just wouldn't get on our fields in the winter so large bale use is very limited)..... a quad and small bales copes with most things.

They don't need field shelters either provided you have trees/ good hedges to shelter from the worst weather.

They will need more feed when it is cold.

My Shetlands and Dexters are out wintered .... and there is no reason to house sheep except for our convenience at lambing.

Buttermilk · « **Reply #2 on:** November 28, 2015, 07:46:52 am »

Getting shelter for the hay/straw would be my first concern. You may have to sacrifice a fair amount this winter but if you can get a barn up before hay time next year then do not let lack of current facilities hold you back if the place is the right one for you.

We managed 4 horses and a handful of zwartbles sheep for a winter with no sheds. We got a tent to lamb in http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Wind-shelter-for-sheep-incl-galvanised-gates-Kellfri-450-00-VAT-/121775354638?hash=item1c5a60730e:g:uiQAAOSwsB9WDQzJ

shygirl · « **Reply #3 on:** November 28, 2015, 09:49:56 am »

I wouldn't say Shetland cattle are bred to live outdoors as the majority live inside all winter on Shetland.
however my shetlands live out all year and had no issues. mine utilise my woodland a lot for shelter.

Marches Farmer · « **Reply #4 on:** November 28, 2015, 11:52:46 am »

I'd also think about the breed, when you're planning to calve, poaching around gateways and drinkers and provision of at least a field shelter for a sick animal.