One of the key factors influencing lamb performance at this stage of the season is managing and effectively treating the worm burden. For this OviCast episode, Sheep Specialist Damian Costello joins us to discuss this in detail. Damian explains why it’s important to monitor worm challenge regularly and how to interpret the results. He also highlights the key areas to focus on to ensure treatments are effective. We then look at why now is an ideal time to carry out a drench test on farms, helping to determine how well the products being used are actually working. How to conduct a drench test: https://youtu.be/1TXV1kpMhs8?si=olWviv4hcCHMjNky For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
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21:47
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21:47
August Grass Update
Teagasc Researcher Philip Creighton gives us the monthly update on grassland management on this week’s OviCast. In this episode, Philip covers: · Current grass growth rates and average farm covers · Assessing demand and starting to build covers · Fertiliser recommendations and timing of application · Tips for managing autumn reseeds Whether you’re measuring grass weekly or just keeping an eye on conditions, Philip shares timely, practical advice to help you get the best from your grazing this autumn. You can also sign up to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
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13:41
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13:41
Quarantine, Parasites & Vaccines – reducing the risks when bringing in new sheep
Every time an animal enters or re-enters a flock it poses the risk of bringing unwanted health challenges with it. With sales in full swing, on this week’s OviCast we talk to Sheep Specialist, Michael Gottstein, about how to reduce the risks. What to look for before you buy:· Quarantine and parasite control plans· Reducing the risk of lameness in new arrivals· Using vaccination to protect your flock This episode is a timely reminder for anyone planning to buy stock this season. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
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28:49
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28:49
Making genetic gains - using data this ram sale season
With the ram sale season in full swing, we’re joined by David Coen from Sheep Ireland to discuss how genetic information can help farmers make more informed breeding decisions. David explains the Eurostar Terminal and Replacement Indexes, outlining what they mean and how to interpret them when selecting rams. We also explore how to check if a ram is SIS-eligible, and how to make the most of the RamSearch tool. We discuss the progress being made in performance recording among hill flocks and David gives us a preview of Sheep Ireland’s upcoming multi-breed sale in Kilkenny later this month. The episode closes with a look at why consistency in your breeding plan matters.For more information go to: https://www.sheep.ie/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
Shane Moore, a BETTER Farm participant based in Co. Roscommon, joins this week’s OviCast. Shane runs a mixed sheep and beef enterprise and he shares insights into how the season has progressed so far, including the challenges of joint ill at lambing time and the rebound in lamb performance and drafting. We also discuss:- how Shane selects replacements and identifies problem ewes for culling- post-weaning lamb management, finishing groups and improving ewe condition - his approach to grazing and grassland management this season For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
OviCast is the Teagasc Sheep podcast.
Presented by Ciaran Lynch it brings you the latest advice, insights and technical updates for the sheep industry.
Visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/