Mikaela Baker – Ruminant Productivity Consultant
0457 243 319 or mikaelab@totalresult.com.au
Giving lambs the best start to ensure they have a smooth weaning process and continue daily gains through periods of stress is not only related to optimal nutrition, but optimal management.
Teaching lambs to consume different supplements while on the ewe is a key time saver when you are trying to ramp up the growth rates prior to selling, have a positive plain of nutrition through joining or other critical times.
Two key components to imprint onto lambs:
- Grain – Starch is a powerhouse of value during critical times of management, being a valuable source of energy to the animal and rumen microbes.
Starch is also a critical component for the development of rumen papillae in young lambs. Improving the development of the rumen will increase weight gains in young stock through improved feed efficiency and provide additional energy to go into growth. At weaning, they will be able to get required energy from the grain when milk is no longer available. - Minerals – to support immune function and daily growth rates, supplying minerals through the weaning transition will benefit both the ewe and the lamb.
Trail feeding is a simple tool, but lick feeders and tough feeding is also valuable.
