Small Ruminant Monthly Newsletter
June 2024 |
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Spring Edition Newsletter |
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In this newsletter you will find an article titled "Summer Planning for Sheep and Goat producers". This article touches on some things to keep in mind as the temperatures continue to rise.
The next Small Ruminant Club meeting will be July 23rd at 6 pm at the NC Cooperative Extension Center (60 East Court Street, Marion). Please RSVP by July 18th.
If you have any questions or comments please feel free to call the office and speak with the Livestock Agent, Skyler Murray or email me at skyler_murray@ncsu.edu. |
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Summer Planning for Sheep & Goat Producers |
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As the summer months approach, sheep and goat producers need to take proactive steps to ensure the health, productivity, and well-being of their livestock. Here are some key considerations and planning tips:
1. Heat Stress Management
- Shade and Shelter: Ensure ample shaded areas and proper shelter to protect animals from extreme heat. Natural shade (trees) and artificial structures (sheds) are essential.
- Hydration: Provide constant access to clean, cool water. Monitor water sources frequently to ensure they are not depleted or contaminated.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow in barns and shelters to keep animals cool. Fans and ventilation systems can help.
2. Pasture Management
- Rotational Grazing: Implement rotational grazing practices to prevent overgrazing and allow pastures to recover. This ensures a continuous supply of fresh forage.
- Forage Quality: Monitor the quality and quantity of available forage. Supplement with hay or other feeds if pastures are insufficient.
- Weed Control: Regularly inspect pastures for toxic plants and weeds. Remove harmful vegetation to prevent poisoning.
3. Parasite Control
- Deworming: Develop a deworming schedule based on fecal egg count monitoring. Use effective anthelmintics and rotate classes to avoid resistance.
- Pasture Hygiene: Rotate pastures and manage manure to reduce parasite loads. Consider using multi-species grazing to break parasite cycles.
4. Nutritional Management
- Balanced Diet: Ensure a balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of your animals, especially lactating females and growing kids/lambs.
- Mineral Supplements: Provide mineral supplements, particularly salt and trace minerals, to prevent deficiencies.
5. Breeding and Reproduction
- Breeding Plans: Plan breeding schedules if aiming for specific lambing/kidding seasons. Ensure bucks and rams are in good health and condition.
- Pregnancy Management: Monitor pregnant females for signs of heat stress and nutritional needs. Provide extra care and supplements as needed.
6. Health Monitoring
- Regular Check-ups: Conduct regular health checks to monitor for signs of illness, heat stress, and parasites.
- Vaccinations: Stay up-to-date with vaccinations to prevent common diseases. Consult with a veterinarian for a tailored vaccination schedule.
7. General Maintenance
- Fencing: Inspect and repair fences to prevent escapes and predator access.
- Foot Care: Maintain regular hoof trimming to prevent foot rot and other hoof problems exacerbated by wet conditions.
8. Emergency Preparedness
- Emergency Supplies: Stock up on necessary supplies, including medications, electrolytes, and first aid kits.
- Disaster Plans: Develop and review emergency plans for heatwaves, droughts, and other potential summer hazards.
By planning ahead and addressing these critical areas, sheep and goat producers can ensure their animals remain healthy and productive throughout the summer months. Proper preparation leads to better outcomes and a successful season. |
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Katahdin Sheep
Katahdin are hardy, adaptable, low maintenance sheep that produce superior lamb crops and lean, meaty carcasses. They do not produce a fleece and therefore do not require shearing. They are medium-sized and efficient, bred for utility and for production in a variety of management systems. Ewes have exceptional mothering ability and lamb easily; lambs are born vigorous and alert. The breed is ideal for pasture lambing and grass/forage-based management systems.
To learn more about Katahdin sheep click here.
Photo from: Oklahoma State University |
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Suffolk Sheep
In 1930, Southdowns were described as large sheep without horns, dark faces and legs, fine bones and long small necks. They were low set in front with high shoulders and light forequarters; however, their sides were good, rather broad in the loin, and were full in the thigh and twist. Today's Suffolk derives its meatiness and quality of wool from the old original British Southdown.
To learn more about Suffolk Sheep click here.
Photo From: Oklahoma State University |
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Alpine
Size and production rather than color pattern have been stressed in the development of the French-Alpine. No distinct color has been established, and it may range from pure white through shades of fawn, gray, brown, black, red, bluff, piebald, or various shadings or combinations of these colors. Both sexes are generally short haired, but bucks usually have a roach of long hair along the spine. The beard of males is also quite pronounced. The ears in the Alpine should be of medium size, fine textured, and preferably erect.
To learn more about Alpine Goats click here.
Photo From: Oklahoma State University |
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Boer Goat
The Boer goat is primarily a meat goat with several adaptations to the region in which it was developed. It is a horned breed with lop ears and showing a variety of color patterns. The Boer goat is being used very effectively in South Africa in combination with cattle due to its browsing ability and limited impact on the grass cover. Producing weaning rates in excess of 160% the Boer goat doe is a low maintenance animal that has sufficient milk to rear a kid that is early maturing. The mature Boer Goat buck weighs between 110-135 kg (~240-300 lbs) and does between 90 and 100 kg (~200-225 lbs).
To learn more about Boer Goats click here.
Photo From: Oklahoma State University |
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Extra Information & Articles |
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Body Condition Scoring
This article was written by the University of Florida. It talks about the importance of looking at the Body Condition Score. It also has great pictures that represent what thin and obese look like on the scale. Something interesting about it, is that it goes into detail of how it would feel if you was handling the animal as well.
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FAMACHA Information
The NC Extension website has more information on parasite control, and educational videos on how to check your FAMACHA score. The website has great information on wormers, as well as Factsheets for external parasites. |
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Soil Testing Kits |
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This article was written by an NC Cooperative Extension Employee. This is a well written article, that covers a variety of helpful topics from how and where do I need to take soil samples to how to interpret the report whenever you get it back. |
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Sheep Care Guide |
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This PDF has great information covering a variety of topics for sheep care. |
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NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to form a strategic partnership called N.C. Cooperative Extension.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
N.C. Cooperative Extension - McDowell County Center, 60 E Court St, Marion, NC 28752, United States
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