|
Lambing and kidding season is an exciting yet critical time for small ruminant producers. Proper preparation can make the difference between a smooth season and one filled with stress and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or new to raising sheep and goats, having the right supplies and strategies in place is essential for the health of your animals and their offspring.
1. Timing and Planning
Lambing and kidding typically occur in late winter to early spring in regions like Western North Carolina. This timing ensures warmer weather for newborns and aligns with the growth of spring pastures.
Key Preparation Steps:
- Know Your Due Dates: Sheep and goats have a gestation period of approximately 145–155 days. Keeping accurate breeding records will help you predict birthing dates.
- Monitor Animals: Close to delivery, watch for signs like udder development, softening of the ligaments around the tail, or restlessness.
2. Essential Items for Birthing
Having a well-stocked lambing or kidding kit ensures you’re prepared for both routine births and emergencies.
Basic Supplies to Have On Hand:
- Clean Towels: For drying off newborns, especially in cold weather.
- Gloves and Lubricant: For assisting in difficult births.
- Iodine: To disinfect umbilical cords and prevent infections.
- Heat Lamps or Blankets: To keep weak or chilled newborns warm.
- Nasal Aspirator or Bulb Syringe: To clear mucus from a newborn’s airways.
- Bottle and Colostrum Substitute: For feeding weak or orphaned lambs/kids if needed.
- Scissors and String: For tying off umbilical cords, if necessary.
- Lamb/Kid Puller: A specialized tool for assisting in difficult births.
- Disinfectant Spray or Wipes: To keep the birthing area clean.
- Records and Pen: To document births, weights, and any issues for future reference.
3. Set Up a Safe and Clean Birthing Area
A clean, dry, and safe birthing area is crucial for healthy deliveries and minimizing stress on the mother.
Tips for a Good Setup:
- Lambing/Kidding Pens: Create individual pens for mothers to give birth in peace and bond with their offspring.
- Bedding: Use straw or wood shavings for warmth and cleanliness.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow to reduce the risk of respiratory issues while avoiding drafts.
4. Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Season
Be Present but Let Nature Take Its Course:
Most lambing and kidding happens naturally without intervention. However, being present allows you to assist quickly if needed.
Know When to Intervene:
Signs you may need to help include:
- The mother is in labor for over 30 minutes with no progress.
- A lamb or kid is stuck in an unusual position (e.g., only one leg or the head is visible).
- Weak newborns that struggle to stand or nurse within an hour.
Check for Multiples:
Sheep and goats often have twins or triplets. After each birth, ensure no additional babies are left inside the mother.
Ensure Colostrum Intake:
Colostrum, the mother’s first milk, is rich in antibodies and essential for a newborn’s health. Ensure all lambs and kids nurse within the first few hours. If the mother cannot produce enough, use a colostrum replacer.
Keep Weaker Animals Warm:
Newborns are susceptible to hypothermia. Use a heat lamp or warm the baby with a towel if necessary.
Post-Birth Monitoring:
- Ensure the umbilical cord dries and falls off without infection.
- Watch for signs of postpartum issues in the mother, such as retained placenta or infection.
5. Planning for the Future
Once lambing and kidding season is underway, start thinking ahead:
- Vaccinate: Ensure lambs and kids are vaccinated against common diseases like Clostridium perfringens (overeating disease) and tetanus.
- Tag or Identify: Use ear tags or another identification method for record-keeping.
- Monitor Growth: Weigh newborns regularly to track growth and identify any issues early.
- Pasture Management: Prepare pastures for grazing as spring approaches to ensure mothers and their young have access to quality forage.
Final Thoughts
Lambing and kidding season can be busy, but with preparation, you can ensure a safe and productive time for your herd. By stocking up on essential supplies, creating a clean and comfortable environment, and monitoring your animals closely, you’ll be ready to handle whatever the season brings.
|
