MAKING INFORMED DECISIONS

Performance recording forms a basis for positive selection of breeding stock, based on a whole range of economically important criteria which are crucial for breeders.

When making a visual assessment of a ram to select breeding stock, much of what you see may be a result of management rather than genetics.

Using research and technology to performance record gives a more accurate indication of an animals’ breeding potential and the improvements he can make to overall flock performance, either for breeding replacement stock or store and finished lambs.

The Welsh Index combines both maternal and carcass traits. Lambs performance is monitored from birth to 8 weeks, giving an accurate picture of the ewe’s maternal ability. From 8 to 20 weeks, growth and carcase traits are measured, highlighting the lambs’ own performance in this respect.

We record all of the following to assess the performance of our animals –

• Mating records of ewes and rams.
• Scanning results and foetal age.
• Lambing– lambing ease, lamb vigour.
• Lamb ID, sex and week of birth, DNA sampling to determine parentage.
• 8 week weights.
• Backfat scanning at 20 weeks.

Data gathered is sent to Signet for analysis and EBVs are calculated.

The Welsh EBV gives you the tools you need to make an informed decision for the future breeding of your flock.