Anne Ridler, Massey University's Associate Professor – Sheep & Beef Cattle Health & Production, outlines why examining your ewe's udder is important.
Around 5% of ewes in New Zealand have problems with their udders (udder defects). These can lead to reduced lamb survival and growth rates. It’s a good idea to check udders 4–6 weeks after weaning so that affected ewes can be identified and culled.
Anne explains that checking for udder defects is very important, as lambs born to ewes with lumps or hard udders are three to five times more likely to die.
Anne also recorded a podcast with us, follow this link.