Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a sheep die on its back?
A sheep has a rumen which enables it to digest grass. This is basically
a large fermentation tank where various bacteria break down grass
to produce digestible food. This process produces a lot of gas! The
fermentation tank has a pipe in at the front and a pipe out at the
back. When the sheep is upsidedown, these exits are blocked so the
gas produced cannot escape and just builds up in the rumen until the
poor sheep's lungs are crushed and it is unable to breathe.
Can
a sheep survive on grass alone?
Well, almost. A sheep needs clean drinking water at all times and
sufficient grass. However, it is a good idea to provide access to
minerals as well. This can be as simple as a salt lick enriched with
minerals and vitamins. (<blocks>)
If ewes are pregnant and in the last six to eight weeks of pregnancy,
prolific ewes will also need a high energy supplement. The required
amount should be discussed with an advisor. (<feed>)
Grazing
Licence
Well, here actually. (<licence>)
This example is kindly supplied by BBOWT and would normally be accompanied
by a suitable map.
What
is a stock watcher / Lookerer?
Sheep need to be checked every day. This is the job of the lookerer
or stock watcher. Essentially this can be as simple as ensuring that
the environment is good; sufficient food and clean water, the fences
are sound and the gate closed - and the sheep on the right side of
them. Then see that the animals are not lame, struck by flies or on
their backs. For more details see the (<job>)
of the stock watcher.
What does a stock watcher
do?
As explained above, the job of the stock watcher is essentially simple.
However, the Grazing Animals Project have produced some excellent
notes to assist the stock watcher.
Sheep indicators of health (<indicators>)
Looking Procedure (<procedure>)
For more details, check the GAP website (<GAP>)
Who
can I talk to about a small flock?
The small Shepherds Club sounds ideal.
Website: www.smallshepherdsclub.org.uk
Email: membership@smallshepherdsclub.org.uk
Tel: 01483 284157