At what age do lambs typically begin the weaning process?

Lambs typically begin the weaning process at around 8 to 12 weeks of age. During this period, they are gradually transitioned from reliance on their mother's milk to consuming solid feed. This timing is crucial, as it allows lambs to develop their digestive systems adequately while still receiving essential nutrients from the mother. Weaning too early can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health issues in lambs, whereas delaying weaning too long might impede the ewe's ability to regain body condition and prepare for the next breeding season. Thus, the 8 to 12 weeks timeframe strikes a balance between the nutritional needs of the lambs and the health considerations for the ewes.