Sheep
Slatted Sheep Housing Made Simple
Housing sheep on slats significantly reduces bedding costs and labour demands while improving hygiene within the housing environment. When designed and managed correctly, the cleaner, drier environment can enhance animal health, reduce lameness, and support improved ewe performance. This practical guide provides the information you need to design an effective slatted system to boost productivity…
Business and Policy April 2026 – Sheep
Prices soar into the Spring The lift in old season lamb price in March continued its upward trajectory from February exceeding £8/kg by the end of the month. This was an increase of almost 99p/kg compared to this time last year. This sharp rise has predominantly been driven by a tighter GB supply from a reduced 2025 lamb crop and demand remaining strong throughout the season. With retail data showing a…
Investigating Abortions in Cattle and Sheep
Abortions are associated with financial losses on farms and crofts which can be direct from the loss of the lamb/calf and/or the dam, and indirect from reduced performance through reduced milk production and increased calving intervals. High levels of abortion in herds and flocks can also be mentally distressing for all involved. This factsheet provides…
Business and Policy March 2026 – Sheep
A Steady Incline through February Despite starting 2026 with a decline in the deadweight price during January compared to 2025, dropping to a low of 678.7 ppkg (w/c Jan 31st), prices remain strong compared to historical figures. February has seen some recovery with pricing increasing again coinciding with the start of Ramadan on the 18th of the month. However, although the gap has certainly tightened this month as we head into late February, prices are running ~ 5.7 ppkg behind last year. Mid-February also saw an…
Business and Policy February 2026 – Sheep
The Present Although prime lamb prices entering 2026 remain historically strong; at time of writing (28/01/2026), they are around 50p/kg down on this time last year. While the June Defra Census reported a 1% reduction in breeding ewe numbers from 2024 to 2025; there was an increase in the number of ewes intended for first time lambing – an indication of a flock rebuild in the UK on the back of a high lamb…
Sheep Housing
Sheep Housing Sheep housing is important to flock welfare, including disease management, protection from the elements, hygiene and lambing. On this page you will find information on sheep housing, including the use of slatted flooring. Slatted Flooring Andrew Adamson was unsure how best to utilise a general purpose shed on his farm. A study trip…
Business and Policy January 2026 – Sheep
Looking Back over 2025 On the whole, 2025 delivered us another positive year for the sheep industry. Deadweight SQQ has remained generally consistent throughout 2025, staying between 650 – 750 p/kg and not delivering us the large peaks and troughs witnessed during 2024. 2025 started on a high with SQQ above early 2024 figures. However,…
Business and Policy December 2025 – Sheep
Australian Sheep Producers Intention Survey Meat and Livestock Australia and Australian Wool Innovation Ltd have recently published the results from the sheep producer intentions survey. This survey aids lamb production forecasts for Australia, allowing knowledge of any short-term supply over the coming year. The standout figures in the report are that 52% of Australian producers…
Business and Policy November 2025 – Sheep
October Trade Round-Up The volume of prime lambs coming forward for slaughter rose in October, with slaughter figures for the week ending the 18th of October to be 3% higher than last year. The price is reflecting the increased volume of lambs coming forward, with prices decreasing slightly each week. While September ended with an…
Business and Policy October 2025 – Sheep
September Trade Round-Up The breeding and store trade has shown new record levels in many marts. Cull and prime prices remain above levels from last year. For the week ending 20th September 2025, the SQQ stood at 670.2 p/kg DW, some 0.29p/kg DW ahead of the same week last year. For the same week, the…