How do I assess a sheep farm’s lambing barn and flock health records?

Lambing is the busiest and most delicate time on a sheep farm, and the barn shapes how smoothly it goes. Look at how many lambing pens there are, whether they are easy to clean, how animals move in and out, and where heat lamps and supplies are kept. Ask how the seller handles a long night with many births at once, and who helps.

Now the records. Ask for the flock health file: vaccinations, treatments, lambing results, weak or lost lambs, culls and any sick animals. Look at several seasons rather than one. Notice whether the same problem returns, and ask what was done about it. Compare numbers in the records with the animals you can count.

Speak with the flock’s veterinarian if the seller allows it. Ask what the vet saw over the years and whether the records are complete. If records are sparse, plan to learn the flock’s history through other means, and consider what that means for your first season. Your accountant can help you read how losses and treatment costs appear in the financial statements. Ask how many people usually help at lambing, because a barn that works with extra hands may be hard for one person.

Key takeaways

• Visit the lambing barn and picture a busy night in it.
• Read several seasons of flock health records, not one.
• Match the records to the animals you can count.