BROADCASTS.com

With the mating season finishing up on many farms, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss ram management post mating. Rams are a significant investment for any flock and Michael puts this into perspective on a cost per lamb basis. He goes on to outline the issues with ram longevity and the high turnover rate seen in flocks. He discusses how management practices during the post-mating period can influence this. Michael outlines the problems encountered with rams fighting and offers his tips on how to reduce this risk; he then talks about the importance of addressing ram health issues and culling at this stage of the season. Finally, he discusses the importance of putting condition back on rams post-mating, particularly ram lambs, and what supplementation may be required to achieve this. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/