Farm Animals

Sheep Lambing Welfare: Supervision and Neonatal Care

Overview of welfare during sheep lambing, including supervision, dystocia management, and neonatal care.

Key Facts

Difficult lambings are a major cause of ewe and lamb mortality and welfare harm
24-hour supervision during lambing significantly improves welfare outcomes
Lamb hypothermia is a leading cause of neonatal death in cold climates
Colostrum provision within hours of birth is critical for lamb welfare and survival
Training farmers in lambing assistance improves ewe and lamb welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Sheep lambing welfare depends on appropriate supervision, rapid response to difficulties, and effective neonatal care. Difficult births cause significant pain to ewes and can result in lamb mortality. Training farmers in dystocia management, ensuring colostrum provision, and protecting newborn lambs from hypothermia are evidence-based welfare interventions. Well-resourced lambing facilities and adequate staffing are prerequisites for good lambing welfare.

What You Can Do

Support farmer training in lambing assistance and neonatal lamb care
Advocate for welfare-focused lambing protocols as part of flock health plans
Choose lamb products from farms with documented lambing welfare practices