Lambing

Lambing is the process by which a ewe gives birth to lambs. In managed flocks it is often planned to occur in the lambing season, typically in late winter through spring, and takes place in a clean, sheltered area. Signs a ewe is near lambing include udder development, waxing of teats, restlessness, seeking isolation, nesting behavior, and a drop in feed intake.

Labor progresses in stages: stage one involves uterine contractions and cervical dilation and can last several hours; stage two is the actual birth of the lamb and may last from a few minutes to an hour or more for each lamb; stage three is the expulsion of the placenta and normally occurs within 30 minutes to an hour after birth.

During lambing, supervision is advised. Keep the area dry and warm, ensure access to water and adequate nutrition, and be prepared to assist if lambs are malpresented, if a ewe has prolonged or obstructed labor, or if a lamb does not breathe after birth. If needed, gently assist with lambing by bringing the lamb forward and clearing airways, but avoid excessive interference.

After birth, ensure the lambs receive colostrum within the first hours; naval cords are typically dipped in an antiseptic; tag or identify lambs; provide shelter and dry bedding. Ewes should be monitored for milk production and uterine health, and producers may vaccinate ewes against clostridial diseases and tetanus as part of a farm program.