Livestock
3 June 2019
Learn how blood testing is reducing costs at Dairy Farm
22 June 2018
Learn how Beef & Lamb Strategic Farmer Ian Norbury is making his business more resilient for the future
13 June 2019
On all farms sheep have to be moved and handled several times during the year, which can compromise performance if managed badly. This manual gives an insight into a range of sheep behaviours and explains how a system can be designed and operated to handle sheep calmly, safely and efficiently
23 May 2018
Ewe fertility is one of the main drivers underlying the output of a sheep flock. Optimising fertility increases the number of lambs scanned and born, which in turn drives flock profitability. Following the advice in this manual can help sheep producers set and achieve flock targets
23 May 2018
Many external parasites that infest UK sheep flocks can hardly be seen with the naked eye, yet their effects on animal health, welfare and profit can be significant. This manual aims to help farmers to identify sheep parasites and provides information on how to implement effective control strategies
1 March 2024
As the UK sheep industry has become more reliant on pastures grazed only by sheep, dependence on anthelmintics (wormers) has increased. This manual, produced by the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) group gives an overview of how to control worms effectively and responsibly.
29 May 2024
There are two main challenges for the lamb sector; the first is to maintain the production of high-quality meat and the second is to ensure sheep farming is financially viable. This manual outlines the factors to consider to achieve these aims at every stage of production, from weaning to selection
19 June 2024
The way for sheep producers to maximise returns is to produce and sell the type of sheep buyers really want and are willing to pay for. This manual covers the key issues producers face when marketing prime lambs, from identifying target markets to selecting lambs to market
28 November 2022
With increasingly tight financial margins in beef and sheep production , minimising the losses of saleable meat and offal is important for the whole supply chain. This manual gives an overview of the conditions that cause rejections at post-mortem inspection and how these conditions can be avoided
16 February 2021
Replacement heifers contribute to the new genetic make-up, cost structure and productivity of the suckler herd. This manual provides advice on sourcing, selecting and managing replacement heifers so they can become productive members of the breeding herd
25 October 2018
With careful management, surplus pure dairy-bred male calves can be a useful option for beef farmers looking to source additional animals to rear and finish. This manual gives an overview of how to produce good quality beef from surplus male dairy calves
12 May 2021
Understanding how animals react and what stimulates them helps producers improve handling facilities, making cattle handling safer and more efficient. This manual aims to improve producers' understanding of animal behaviour, helping them refine their skills and improve their facilities