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5. (a) Compare mountain/hill sheep production with lowland sheep production - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 5 - 2018
Question 5
5. (a) Compare mountain/hill sheep production with lowland sheep production. (b) Describe the management practices used by sheep farmers at lambing time. (c) Many... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:5. (a) Compare mountain/hill sheep production with lowland sheep production - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 5 - 2018
Step 1
Compare mountain/hill sheep production with lowland sheep production.
Answer
Mountain/hill sheep production typically involves extensive (or low) stocking rates, resulting in lower production. These systems are characterized by rough grazing and tend to experience higher mortality rates, often producing single lambs. The labor involved is usually low.
In contrast, lowland sheep production is characterized by intensive (or high) stocking rates. This leads to higher production levels, better grazing conditions, and the potential for higher lamb outputs. Lowland systems typically experience lower mortality rates, produce more than one lamb, offer better breeding management, and require higher levels of labor.
Step 2
Describe the management practices used by sheep farmers at lambing time.
Answer
At lambing time, sheep farmers implement a variety of management practices such as:
- Housing: Providing shelters to protect ewes and lambs from adverse weather conditions.
- Feeding Concentrates: Supplementing the diet with concentrates to ensure ewes receive adequate nutrition during this critical period.
- Supervision: Keeping a close watch on ewes to assist during lambing, which may include assistance in the lambing pens.
- Hygiene Practices: Maintaining cleanliness through regular checking of facilities and using disinfectants to prevent disease.
Step 3
Lameness control: Explain how it is carried out.
Answer
Lameness control is carried out through regular checks of the flock, where farmers look for any signs of lameness. This may include applications of antibiotic sprays for infected areas or footbathing to prevent infection. Farmers may also involve culling persistent cases to ensure overall flock health.
Step 4
Step 5
Flystrike control: Explain how it is carried out.
Answer
Flystrike control is conducted through preventative dipping or pouring of insecticides onto sheep's backs, particularly in warmer months when fly populations are high. Regular shearing and maintaining clean conditions can also help mitigate risks.
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Scanning of in-lamb ewes: Explain the benefit to overall production in the flock.
Answer
This practice allows farmers to identify the number of lambs each ewe is carrying, enabling better management decisions, such as adjusting feeding or caring for ewes based on the number of lambs expected. This ultimately enhances productivity and reduces waste.