Management & reproduction

Reproductive rate varies widely among livestock species. Nonetheless, efficient reproduction is critical to profitability in all livestock industries. Nutrition and genetics are the key drivers of efficient reproduction. However, there are many other facets of management such as, behaviour, use of technology and housing that must also be taken into consideration if farm enterprises are to raise their reproductive rate.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development conducts research, development and extension activities in collaboration with industry partners to improve the productivity of the main livestock species. The objective is to support the economic development of the state by improving the profitability of Western Australian farm enterprises.

Articles

Lambing and lactation

25 November 2013

The first 48 hours of a lamb’s life are critical – around 90% of lamb mortality from birth to weaning occurs within this period. It is also a critical period of time for the ewe.
Managing grass seeds in sheep

25 November 2013

Grass seeds may cause a number of serious production and health problems in sheep, including eye damage. Wool affected by grass seed has reduced demand value.
Managing beef heifers to maximise productivity and profitability in southern Western Australia

18 February 2014

Mature cow weights have increased over the last 10-20 years due to genetic progress.

Older recommendations used for target heifer joining weights may no longer be appropriate.
Ovine campylobacteriosis (formerly ovine vibriosis)

8 August 2014

Ovine campylobacteriosis is an infectious disease of breeding ewes causing abortion in late pregnancy. It is caused by the bacteria Campylobacter fetus ssp. fetus.
Lifetime Ewe Management training course

18 November 2013

Lifetime Ewe Management (LTEM) is a nationally accredited course involving groups of five to six producers and six 'hands-on' sessions over a period of 12 months. Training under the Lifetime Ewe Ma
Pulpy kidney (enterotoxaemia) of sheep

12 December 2013

Pulpy kidney (enterotoxaemia) is a disease of sheep, goats and cattle.
Photosensitisation in livestock

11 December 2013

Photosensitisation is inflammation of the skin, and occasionally the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye.
Arthritis in sheep

29 November 2013

Arthritis means inflammation in one or more joints. In sheep, it is usually the result of bacterial infection.
Farmer wants a life - sheep research open day

23 January 2018

Feel like you’re dealing with your flock around the clock? Maybe it’s time to get yourself a better deal.
Avoiding tender wool

25 November 2013

Wool is called ‘tender’ when it is discounted for low staple strength. The point at which price discounts start depends on the market and the fibre diameter.