Hello Everyone!
Just discovered this wonderful site. Will be using this as my main point of reference from now on.
I am, however, in a bit of a situation. I have a small flock, 5 ewes and 4 wethers, who are a complete joy to cross graze along side our other livestock.
The problem I have is that our next door neighbours 'rampant ram' broke through the fence and got in with my girls back in April (I'm told around the 22nd). I have only just found this out, in passing conversation the neighbour told me that his ram hasn't escaped since he changed the fencing; that is when the full story came out.
Of course I am really annoyed about this, thinking that I may have to lamb in September, not an ideal time I'm sure. I have also NEVER lambed before in my life. I was planning on doing it at some stage in the future, but I had visions of going on a lambing course first for some 'hands on' experience first.
I'm really, really hoping that they aren't in lamb and that they managed to fight of the advances of the 'lothario ram'. I'm told that the likelihood is that they are.
So, my questions are, what signs do I need to look out for to see if they are in lamb? I trimmed their feet the other day and had a feel of their udders but I couldn't tell any difference. To be honest, I haven't taken much notice of their udders before this saga.
Also, does anyone have any lambing tips they can pass on? This is making me feel more anxious then anything else - having never done it!
Thanks in advance!!