In sheep management, what is an important behavioral change that indicates impending labor?

Isolation from the flock is a significant behavioral change that sheep exhibit as they approach labor. This behavior is often linked to the instinctual patterns seen in many mammals, where pregnant females seek solitude to ensure their safety and reduce stress during the birthing process. When a ewe isolates herself, it indicates that she is entering the latter stages of labor and is preparing to give birth. This instinctive behavior helps protect both the mother and her newborn lambs from potential threats.

Other behaviors, such as vocalizing more frequently or a drop in overall activity, may occur but are less direct indicators of labor. While increased vocalization can signal stress or discomfort, it does not specifically correlate with the onset of labor as clearly as isolation does. Gathering around food may indicate general grazing behavior and is not related to the birthing process. Therefore, the act of separating from the flock is a critical sign that indicates a ewe is about to give birth.