Pregnancy testing of ewes is performed via abdominal ultrasound in a specially designed sheep crate. Pregnancy scanning can be performed 5-6 weeks following the end of joining period and has a 99% accuracy rate.
Advantages:
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Seperate pregnant and dry ewes early in pregnancy to manage each group accordingly (better monitoring etc)
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Reduce costs associated with feeding dry ewes
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Directly increase available feed for pregnant ewes
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Earlier detection and sale of unproductive ewes
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Increase selection pressure for breeding
Equipment Required:
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We provide the scanning crate (which is set up at the end of the raceway)
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2-3 people to help handle ewes (push up the race etc)
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Yard the ewes overnight before scanning (increase accuracy of pregnancy scanning)
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Power is required (a generator can be supplied if given prior notification)
Capabilities
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Approximately 200-400 ewes can be scanned per hour, depending on personell, ewe behaviour and the yard facilities
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Up to 3000 ewes can be scanned per day

Photo Credit Marie White