146. Success in timing sheep resting habits could lead to predicting birth
Dr Manod Williams

A research study found that the lying behaviour of pregnant sheep prior to lambing was associated with factors such as the number of expected lambs, their birth weight and sex.

Accelerometers fitted to the legs of sheep can be used to estimate how long they lie down. It is believed that this research will lead to predicting when sheep will give birth by identifying the factors that affect for how long they lie down.

The study was part of efforts to develop precision livestock farming methods for the sheep sector, and to allow a better understanding of the behaviour of pregnant ewes.

News: Success in timing sheep resting habits could lead to predicting birth