What type of sheep management practice involves removing wool around the mammary glands?

The practice of removing wool around the mammary glands is known as crutching. This process involves shearing the wool around the udder and hindquarters of ewes, which helps maintain hygiene and minimizes the risk of flystrike, a condition where flies lay eggs on soiled wool, leading to serious health issues. Crutching is particularly important during lambing when ewes are at greater risk for difficulties related to hygiene and infection. Ensuring that the area is clean can improve the overall health of both the ewe and her lambs.

Castration, tagging, and docking refer to different management practices that serve other purposes, such as controlling reproduction, identifying sheep, or shortening the tails, which does not directly relate to the care of the mammary glands.