Sheep specialist and sales manager Steven Turnbull was interviewed by Scottish farmer reporter Julie Wight, on the benefits of creep feeding lambs at an early age.
What are the main benefits of creep feeding lambs?
Getting lambs to grow quicker resulting in less days on farm and finished at an optimal time when there is normally a premium due to low numbers being forward. Offering a complimentary creep feed will see lambs achieve a better cover and subsequently grade better resulting in more profit for the farmer.
What are the key minerals found in a good quality feed?
A high level of Vitamin E and a quality source of protected selenium such as Alkosel are important for lamb immunity and health. B vitamins are important for energy metabolism and so Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B1 should be added. Ammonium chloride for the prevention on urinary calculi is vital.
What feed conversion rate should they be doing? (Per kg of creep eaten what should the lamb gain)
Feed conversions rates can vary hugely with so many variables, breed of lamb, age, condition, environmental factors and forage. However a conversion rate of 2;1 can routinely be achieved when creep feeding young commercial lambs that are being nursed by the ewe. Hoggs being fattened particularly native breeds mid winter and not housed can rise to a conversion rate of nearer 6:1 at times.
Is it worth the money?
It has never been so cost effective to creep feed lambs. I would suggest that anyone lambing commercial ewes in February or March should be looking to do this. With current lamb prices at record highs, DW £8/9kg. A lamb consuming 1kg of feed can achieve 500grams weight gain per day, so in monetary terms feed cost at 0.35p can be converted into £2.25.
Are there any alternatives to creep feeding lambs?
There is no viable alternatives that can replace the performance that creeping young lambs achieves
Are there any health risks to be aware of?
Home mixing using barley or wheat as the primary starch source can lead to acidosis if not balanced properly, creeping with blend can also lead to the lambs sorting and being selective of a particular raw material which can again cause issues. There is also a risk of urinary calculi if the ration does not contain the correct levels of ammonium chloride.
Any other overall comments on creep feeding lambs?
Using a top quality well balanced high energy compound which includes a top spec vitamin and mineral package will ensure the lambs genetic growth potential is achieved. You only sell a lamb once so it is vital you maximise the return by aiming to achieve a good weight and well finished carcass.
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