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As winter gives way to early spring, sheep owners must adjust feeding programs to account for changing pasture conditions, lambing season, and the nutritional needs of their flock. Early spring presents both opportunities and challenges as fresh forage becomes available but may not yet provide all essential nutrients.
Gradual Transition to Spring Pasture
Early spring grass is lush, high in moisture, and rich in sugars, which can lead to digestive issues like bloat or acidosis if sheep are suddenly exposed to unrestricted grazing. To prevent complications, gradually introduce sheep to pasture by allowing limited grazing time and supplementing with hay until their digestive systems adapt.
Key Nutritional Considerations:
- Forage Quality & Fiber Needs
- Fresh spring grass is highly digestible but low in fiber. Providing supplemental hay ensures adequate fiber intake, reducing the risk of digestive upset.
- If pastures are overly wet or sparse, consider offering high-quality hay or silage to maintain consistent nutrient intake.
- Protein & Energy Requirements
- Lactating ewes require increased energy and protein to support milk production for their lambs. Supplementing with high-energy feeds such as grain or alfalfa can help meet these demands.
- Growing lambs also need adequate protein to support healthy development. A creep feeding system with a balanced grain ration can promote steady growth.
- Vitamin & Mineral Supplementation
- Spring grass, while rich in certain nutrients, may be deficient in essential minerals. Provide a well-balanced mineral supplement formulated for sheep.
- Calcium & Phosphorus: These minerals must be in proper balance to support bone health and metabolic function. Pastures high in legumes like clover can have excess calcium, requiring phosphorus supplementation.
- Magnesium: Rapidly growing spring grass can be low in magnesium, increasing the risk of grass tetany, particularly in lactating ewes. Offering a magnesium supplement or free-choice mineral supplement helps prevent this issue.
- Selenium & Vitamin E: Selenium is crucial for muscle function and immune support, particularly in selenium-deficient regions. Vitamin E enhances immune response and lamb survival rates. Supplementing both ensures flock health.
- Copper: Unlike other livestock, sheep are highly sensitive to copper toxicity. Ensure mineral supplements are sheep-specific and do not contain excessive copper levels.
- Monitoring Body Condition & Growth
- Assess the body condition of ewes, lambs, and rams regularly to adjust feeding as needed. Ewes losing condition may need additional energy, while over-conditioned sheep should have controlled access to lush pasture.
- Weighing lambs periodically helps track growth and ensures they receive proper nutrition for development.
- Hydration & Salt Intake
- Always provide fresh, clean water, as hydration is essential for digestion and milk production.
- Offer a free-choice salt block to encourage water intake and maintain electrolyte balance.
Health Considerations
- Parasite Management: Warmer temperatures increase parasite risks, so conduct regular fecal testing and implement a strategic deworming program.
- Lambing Support: Ensure that lactating ewes have optimal nutrition to produce high-quality milk, and provide lambs with a good start through colostrum intake and early nutrition management.
Conclusion
Proper nutritional management during early spring supports optimal flock health, productivity, and lamb growth. By carefully transitioning to pasture, supplementing essential nutrients, and monitoring flock condition, sheep owners can ensure a successful start to the season.
For specific recommendations, consult a livestock nutritionist or veterinarian to tailor a feeding plan for your flock’s needs.
Check out our High-Quality Vitamin, Mineral and Protein Supplements to help maximize your herds health. https://livestocknutritionsupplies.com/shop/
Stay informed, stay proactive, and together, let’s safeguard the well-being of our livestock.
Happy Spring!
Tyler Stehlik
Livestock Nutrition Supplies LLC
LivestockNutritionSupplies@gmail.com
(531)333-3150
https://livestocknutritionsupplies.com/shop/
For any questions or further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you provide the best care for your animals.
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