The number of lambs reared per ewe is still one of the most important single factors affecting the productivity of sheep flocks. Some loss of lambs is unavoidable; however, an improvement in lamb numbers reared of as little as 1% can make a significant difference to the profitability of any sheep enterprise.



Ewes that are in good condition and well fed are usually good mothers but not all ewes have the same degree of mothering instinct for their lamb(s). Whilst genetics can play a role in influencing mothering ability, the age and the condition of the ewe, and disturbance of the ewe during and immediately following lambing also have a significant effect. Ewes which are disturbed or alarmed during or immediately after lambing will often leave their lambs and may not return. Hungry ewes may also abandon their lambs when feed is offered. If a ewe is old or exhausted after a difficult or multiple birth she may neglect the last lamb born and not clean the membranes from around its mouth – causing the lamb to suffocate in an unlicked membrane. Ewe lambs and yearlings lambing for the first time also react differently than older ewes. Sometimes penning ewe lambs or yearlings with their lambs will help the bonding process and lambs may need help to suck until the ewes become accustomed to them.

There are several management aspects that can be considered to help ewes and lambs bond in the very early hours following birth.