Tools to improve lamb survival
There are many factors that impact lamb survival including feed planning to avoid underfeeding, body condition scoring and pregnancy. Words Sandra Taylor.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is ramping up efforts to help farmers improve lamb survival and lift productivity across the sheep sector.
Lamb survival is a critical issue. On average, New Zealand flocks experience 15–18% lamb mortality, a figure that directly impacts profitability. Lifting lamb weaning rates by 10–30% could increase enterprise cash operating surplus from $291/ha to $342-444/ha. Producing heavier lambs adds even more value.
“Lamb survival is influenced by multiple factors,” says Dr Mhairi Sutherland, Senior Scientist in Animal Health and Welfare Research at B+LNZ. “Understanding how they each interact is key to implementing effective solutions.”
B+LNZ, through workshops, podcasts, and farmer-led focus groups, is delivering practical tools and expert advice to support on-farm decision-making.
“We know this is important for farmers – B+LNZ’s goal is to make sure they have the right support at the right time,” says Mhairi.
To try and address the challenge of lamb survival, B+LNZ brought together farmers, vets, and scientists to identify the biggest opportunities to help farmers. Feed planning and underfeeding were flagged as major risks. Body condition scoring and pregnancy scanning were also highlighted as critical areas where action can make a real difference.
The group also explored barriers to adopting known solutions. While information exists, farmers face challenges in accessing and applying it, especially during busy periods like lambing. Farmer fatigue, mis-mothering, and uncertainty around practices like pre-lambing shearing and vaccinations were also discussed.
To tackle these issues, B+LNZ is rolling out targeted support. The Optimising Lamb Survival podcast series features experts like Dr David Stevens, Professor Paul Kenyon, Geordie Eade, and Dr Rene Corner-Thomas. Topics include ewe nutrition, feed strategies, and lambing tips farmers can apply in real time.
Dean Sinnamon, Extension Manager Otago, B+LNZ encourages farmers to get involved in their local focus group. “Regional focus groups are another key part of the initiative. These farmer-led groups create space for sharing practical advice and solving real-world problems together. They’re helping build a community of support and innovation around improving lamb survival.”
To learn more or get involved, B+LNZ has created a dedicated webpage where farmers can access all available resources, including the Optimising Lamb Survival podcast series and information on how to join a regional focus group.
