The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: mab on December 26, 2010, 10:23:35 pm
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How long can I keep a ram lamb without him getting the ladies pregnant? He's a Shetland / Jacobs cross BTW - don't know if that makes a difference.
According to the vet I've got 'til 6 months but I'm sure I read 4.5 somewhere (on this forum?). I have tried searching past posts but I haven't had any luck.
The reason I ask is that I don't have a suitable transport to the abattoir - will have something in a month - hopefully, and the lamb's 4 months old. Where does the time go?!?
Thanks
MAB
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I wouldn't trust a Jacob after 4 months, a Shetland after 5 - the choice is yours ;D Do you have any other males he can be with? Or ewes which have already run with a ram?
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No, I've just got the two ewe's, and I wasn't going to get them tupped this year. It wouldn't be the end of the world if they got pregnant, i'd just be happier not to have to worry about them this year as I might be re-locating.
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It's probably worth the risk then as he would be miserable on his own.
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Thanks Fleecewife, always nice to have a 2nd (& more expert) opinion. :)
I did think about fencing him off from the ladies but as I've only got electric fencing I doubt it would stop them.
mab
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Keep us informed of the outcome ie lambs or no lambs ;D