What is the purpose of culling in sheep management?

Culling is a critical aspect of sheep management that focuses on improving the overall health and productivity of a flock. The primary purpose of culling is to remove unproductive or diseased animals from the herd. This practice helps ensure that only the healthiest and most productive sheep are kept, which can lead to better overall flock performance, higher fertility rates, and improved growth rates among lambs.

By eliminating animals that are not contributing effectively, either due to health issues, poor reproductive performance, or other factors that hinder productivity, managers can enhance the genetic quality of the remaining flock. Healthy sheep contribute to higher productivity in terms of meat, milk, and wool, and culling plays a vital role in achieving these goals. Keeping a healthy and vigorous flock is essential for the sustainability of sheep farming and helps in maintaining high standards for animal welfare.