Identifying Potential Replacements: Turning Lambing Data into Genetic Gain

With lambing season well underway, we catch up with Dr. Nóirín McHugh to discuss how to identify and select the best ewe lambs as future replacements, and what genetics we are introducing into the flock.

Nóirín explains how genetics influences a wide range of production and behavioural traits — from litter size and lambing ease to mothering ability and lamb vigour — as well as their role in reducing undesirable issues such as prolapse and lameness.

We also explore how observations made during lambing can be used to make more informed replacement decisions, helping to drive long-term flock performance.

Finally, Nóirín outlines what to watch for as the season progresses, ensuring that selection decisions made now continue to deliver benefits throughout the year

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast