What are primary factors affecting lamb survival rates?

The factors that contribute to lamb survival rates are critical for successful sheep management. When considering options like birth weight, mother's health, and environmental conditions, all play a crucial role in the survival chances of newborn lambs.

Birth weight is directly related to the viability of the lamb; lambs that are born at optimal weights are generally healthier and more robust, making them better equipped to thrive after birth. A mother's health is equally important, as a healthy mother can provide adequate nutrition and care for her offspring both pre- and post-natally. Environmental conditions, including shelter, climate, and pasture quality, also significantly impact lamb survival. Adverse weather and poor environmental conditions can lead to stress and health complications in both mothers and lambs, decreasing survival rates.

These three factors—birth weight, mother’s health, and environmental conditions—collectively influence the immediate and long-term survival prospects of lambs within a flock, making them primary determinants in lamb survival rates.