23/09/2026
Practical options for improving your lambing block ๐
Flushing: To stimulate a higher ovulation rates, ewes can be given an energy boost 2 to 3 weeks before tupping by turning onto clean, rising pastures or provide high-energy supplementation. Avoid pastures containing high levels of red clover during this window (oestrogen effect still unclear).
Teaser Tups (Tup Vasectomies): A fit, healthy, virile ram undergoes a straightforward surgical procedure that renders the Tup infertile but still behaving as a normal Tup. The hormonal drive (pheromones/ram effect) stimulates ewes to cycle without getting in lamb
Progesterone Implants (CIDR OVIS/Sponges): These intravaginal devices are put in place for around 12 days. They work by providing a steady supply of artificial progesterone hormone that puts normal cycling on hold. When the device is removed, the sudden drop in progesterone stimulates a flush of oestrogen from the eweโs ovaries and the ewes come into season synchronously. An injection of PMSG is usually given at this time to boost ovulation.
Melatonin Implants (Regulin): A hormone implant is given at the base of the ear to stimulate the eweโs body systems into thinking that the day length is getting shorter. This brings the forward the ewes breeding season to get in lamb earlier and tighten lambing block.
Laparoscopic AI / Embryo Transfer (ET): As these procedures are more involved, they have often only been associated with elite pedigree flocks and nucleus flocks. Advancements in recent years have made these processes far more accessible and used for tightening lambing blocks and accelerating genetic improvement in flocks.
For most commercial flocks in our area, attention to detail with good ewe management, nutrition and adequate ram power are still cornerstones. Teaser Tups are becoming increasingly popular in tightening lambing blocks as are use of simple melatonin programmes.
AI and ET are great multiplying existing favourable genetics and for bringing new genetics into a flock.
All the above options are available at Caledonia Farm Vets. For more information contact the practice to arrange a chat with one of our vets.
Alistair Moir BVM&S,MRCVS
Veterinary Surgeon
