Identifying potential replacements: Turning lambing data into genetic gain

With lambing season well underway, OviCast podcast host, Ciaran Lynch catches 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 its role in reducing undesirable issues such as prolapse and lameness.

Helping to drive long-term flock performance, Ciaran and Nóirín discuss how observations made during lambing can be used to make more informed replacement decisions.

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

Listen in below:

<iframe width=”100%” height=”180″ frameborder=”no” scrolling=”no” seamless=”” src=”https://share.transistor.fm/e/810f0d2f”></iframe>

For more episodes, visit the OviCast podcast show page.