4 September 2007
SELF REPLACING SHEEP FLOCKS
Some comparisons as between Merino and Corriedales as experienced in Victoria’s Wimmera District by O. Guthrie on ‘Rich Avon’ near Donald:
Merino | Corriedale | |
Lambing percentages | 80 | 120 |
Maturity reached at | 3 y.o. | 2 y.o. |
Wool cuts (greasy) | 8 - 9 kg | 7 - 8 kg |
Wool prices average | 375 c | 200 c |
Death rates | 3.5 % | 1.5 % |
Replacement ewes retained | 25 % | 20 % |
Fly problems | 7 % | 4 % |
Worm problems | 10 % | 5 % |
Ease of management - rating - / 10 | 5 / 10 | 9 / 10 |
Need for mulesing | 80 % | 5 % |
Feed required - rating - / 10 | 7 / 10 | 9 /10 |