The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Rugbyman on December 19, 2010, 11:37:22 pm
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Started giving my ewes concentrate today, it is standard ewe nuts but it doesnt mention anythinh on the packaging about how much to feed them. They are due to lamb sometime around beginning April but the heavy snow has forced me to feed earlier. They do have access to hay but some of them havent taken to it yet. I have 6 Herdwick and 6 jacob ewes and one herdwick ram. So...how much of concentrate does each sheep get?
Thanks
Marshall
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Because they are in early pregnancy its better to feed as little as poss otherwise might get birthing difficulties, feed more later on. I just feed mine the equivalent of a small clenched handful each, and make sure they have access to ad lib hay and a high energy bucket as the main feed thing. Mine are shetlands so similar tough breed.
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Feed sugar beet nuts and some barley if concerned, otherwise ad lib good hay fed in a rack or feeder and a good bucket lick will be enough...honest! They need good long fibre to replace the grass and some added boost they will get from the bucket. Some sugarbeet will give added carbohydrate and fibre and a bit of barley will keep them warm. I would allow a small mug per animal.
Herdwicks are possibly the hardiest sheep in the British Isles!
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Thanks for the replies