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Mating MERINO EWE LAMBS Ben Duxson Glendemar

Mating MERINO EWE LAMBS Ben Duxson Glendemar. Background. 20 Years of pedigree data MERINOSELECT, since inception 5 years EID system Now, genomics This year, TGRM matings 12 years of trial and error, in ewe lamb joining’s Involved in several trials. Why bother?.

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Mating MERINO EWE LAMBS Ben Duxson Glendemar

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  1. Mating MERINO EWE LAMBS Ben Duxson Glendemar

  2. Background • 20 Years of pedigree data • MERINOSELECT, since inception • 5 years EID system • Now, genomics • This year, TGRM matings • 12 years of trial and error, in ewe lamb joining’s • Involved in several trials

  3. Why bother? Decrease the average age of the flock More high value sales stock – lambs and breeding ewes Early detection of ewes that are more fertile – sire, dam & progeny Ramp up genetic gain

  4. A tactical decision • Not for everyone • Don’t attempt to mate Merino ewe lambs if: • You are getting low % in adults – fix that first • Weaners are light (tough season) • You don’t have an economical way to feed them (lucerne, cheap grain etc) • But it is an opportunity to capitalise on good seasons and prices • Requires precision management

  5. Keys to success • Like everything in sheep it comes down to 3 things: • Feeding • Breeding • Management • Get these things right and it works • Cost effective and simple

  6. Feeding for success • Get the simple things right: • Manage all ewes to LTEM guidelines • Manage lambs using HPW guidelines • Weight is critical • Above average for fat (Merino’s)

  7. Feeding for success The heavier they are the better they go

  8. Breeding for success • Must use responsive genetics • Naturally reproductive • High post-wean weight ASBVs • High fat & high muscle • Moderate fleece weight • Low wrinkle

  9. Breeding for success

  10. Breeding for success YFAT = +1mm YFAT = -1mm

  11. Breeding for success Source, Glendemar Data 2011, 935 ewes

  12. Manage for success Following Year Source: Glendemar Data 2012 Scanning

  13. Manage for success Wean lambs early Have flexible management systems Find simple & cost effective systems Combine breeding & feeding

  14. Things we are still investigating • Which sires/dams do it consistently • What happens for the rest of the ewes life? • What is the production of lambs born from lambs? • Changes in weight while mating • Economic cost/benefit

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