Sheep
Bluetongue Virus Update
While there are no reported cases in Scotland, as of 21st April, according to the DEFRA website, there have been 337 cases of bluetongue in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland in the 2025 to 2026 bluetongue season. These have included cases in calves born with neurological signs and blindness, and abortions and stillbirths. Protecting Against Bluetongue Vaccination is…
Business and Policy May 2026 – Sheep
Steady into spring Following strong demand in March driving deadweight prices up to a peak at 867.3p pkg (w/e 28th March 2026), stemming from a tight supply and boosted by both Ramadan and Easter falling close together, we have seen prices ease again slightly going into April. Prices remain well ahead of 2025 figures at >800p pkg deadweight SQQ (AHDB). The live ring has largely followed a similar trend peaking at the end of March at 408.87p pkg before dropping back to 400.46p pkg although we are seeing a steadying in liveweight…
Clostridial Vaccinations in Breeding Sheep Flocks
Clostridia bacteria are almost everywhere in the environment and so are a constant threat. Furthermore, most cases of clostridial disease are fatal resulting in a large economic and environmental cost to farms and crofts. This information note explains the background, risks and solutions to clostridial diseases in breeding sheep flocks. Although certain steps can reduce…
Slatted Sheep Housing Made Simple
Click Here to Download a PDF/Print Version 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…
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 Case Study and Guides Andrew Adamson was unsure how best to utilise a general purpose shed on his…
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,…