Lambing and kidding days are some of the most important and intense times on a small ruminant farm. These are the periods when ewes (female sheep) and does (female goats) give birth, requiring attentive care, planning, and readiness to handle various situations. Proper management during lambing and kidding not only increases the survival rate of newborns but also supports the health of the mother animals. These days often demand long hours and careful observation, especially for farmers looking to improve the productivity and welfare of their flocks and herds.
Understanding Lambing and Kidding
Lambing refers to the birthing process in sheep, while kidding refers to the same in goats. Though the processes are similar, each species may present unique behaviors and requirements. Being prepared ahead of time helps prevent losses and ensures smooth delivery and care for both mothers and newborns.
Gestation Period
- Sheep (Ewes): Average gestation is around 147 days (approximately 5 months).
- Goats (Does): Average gestation is about 150 days (also about 5 months).
Knowing the breeding dates allows farmers to estimate the lambing or kidding window and plan accordingly. Most farms mark expected due dates on calendars and begin preparations at least two weeks prior.
Signs of Approaching Labor
Recognizing the early signs of labor helps farmers monitor and assist if necessary. Common behaviors and physical changes include:
- Restlessness or frequent lying down and standing up
- Swollen udder and teats filling with milk
- Loss of appetite
- Vulva becomes soft and enlarged
- Clear discharge from the vulva
- Nesting behavior such as pawing at bedding
These signs typically appear within 12 to 24 hours of delivery. Farmers often move the animals to a clean, quiet area when these indicators appear.
Preparing for Lambing and Kidding Days
Preparation is crucial for successful lambing and kidding. Having all equipment and facilities ready reduces stress and helps manage emergencies effectively.
Essential Supplies
- Clean, dry bedding (straw or wood shavings)
- Clean towels or rags for drying newborns
- Lubricant and disposable gloves
- Iodine solution for dipping navels
- Heat lamp or safe warming area
- Feeding bottles and colostrum replacer (in case of weak kids/lambs)
- Notebook or record sheet for birth details
Birthing Area Setup
The birthing area should be sheltered, free of drafts, and easy to clean. Pens should allow enough space for the dam to lie comfortably and bond with her offspring. For large herds, individual jugs (small pens) are used to isolate mothers and newborns for 2448 hours after birth to ensure strong bonding and feeding.
The Birth Process
Normal Labor Stages
Labor in sheep and goats generally follows three stages:
- Stage One: Lasts 2 to 12 hours. The dam becomes restless, shows signs of discomfort, and may isolate herself.
- Stage Two: Active pushing begins, and the first lamb or kid is usually born within 30 to 45 minutes.
- Stage Three: Expulsion of the placenta, which should happen within 4 hours after the last offspring is delivered.
If labor extends beyond normal timeframes or the animal shows signs of distress, assistance may be needed. Gentle pulling, under the guidance of a veterinarian or experienced farmer, can sometimes help reposition a stuck baby.
Post-Birth Care
Care for the Newborn
- Ensure the newborn is breathing and clear any membranes from the face.
- Dry the baby thoroughly to prevent chilling.
- Dip the umbilical cord in iodine to prevent infection.
- Make sure the newborn receives colostrum within the first 2 hours. This first milk is essential for immunity.
Care for the Mother
- Offer warm water and a small amount of feed after delivery.
- Check the udder for milk and assist in feeding if the baby is weak or confused.
- Observe for retained placenta or other post-partum complications.
Monitoring the mother and her offspring closely for the first 2448 hours helps detect any issues early and increases survival rates.
Record Keeping
Maintaining accurate records during lambing and kidding days helps with breeding decisions, health tracking, and production planning. Farmers should note:
- Date of birth
- Number of offspring per dam
- Birth weights (if possible)
- Any assistance provided
- Mother’s condition and milk production
- Tag numbers or identification
Over time, these records help identify high-performing animals, reproductive issues, or trends that require attention.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Stillbirths or Weak Newborns
Sometimes, newborns may be stillborn or too weak to nurse. In such cases:
- Use a warming box or heat lamp to raise body temperature.
- Tube-feed or bottle-feed colostrum if they are unable to nurse.
- Consult a vet if the dam repeatedly produces weak or dead offspring.
Orphaned or Rejected Babies
Occasionally, a mother may reject one or more of her offspring. Solutions include:
- Attempt re-bonding using the mother’s scent or confinement in a small pen.
- Use a foster mother if available.
- Raise the baby on milk replacer with regular bottle feeding.
Prolapse or Complicated Births
If a ewe or doe experiences uterine prolapse or dystocia (difficult birth), immediate veterinary assistance is necessary. These cases should not be handled without experience.
Planning for Future Seasons
Each lambing and kidding season provides valuable lessons. Reviewing successes and mistakes can improve future outcomes. Consider the following:
- Select breeding stock with good maternal instincts and easy births.
- Use body condition scoring to manage the nutrition of pregnant animals.
- Adjust breeding times to align births with favorable weather conditions or market windows.
Advance planning, good genetics, and attentive care are the keys to reducing losses and increasing productivity year after year.
Lambing and kidding days require careful preparation, patience, and quick response to ensure healthy births and strong starts for newborns. With the right setup and knowledge, farmers can confidently handle the challenges and celebrate the joys of new life on the farm. Monitoring health, maintaining records, and learning from each season’s experience are the foundations of success in managing sheep and goats. These critical days not only affect immediate survival but also shape the future productivity of the flock or herd.