Sunday Reading - Sheep are happy and I learned a few things

Despite the amount of work it still is for me I must say I learned quite a bit besides getting a bit more shearing practice in. One major thing being that the two Rambouillet ewes we have tend to have hoof problems more than the other breeds. I got to trim their hooves down under expert supervision and while all the various little problem spots etc are a bit confusing when it comes to shearing, learning to trim the hooves was pretty straight forward. I had also made the comment that I didn't understand why my Mother had been so keen on picking up the two Rambouillet ewes although they are pretty good breeders. Our shearer's wife then showed me how their particular coloring was somewhat uncommon and sought after. Apparently that particular shade of champagne/tan is popular with the hand spinner types.

The big ram that everyone around here is always so afraid of losses almost all his intimidation factor after being sheared. Poor guy is really not that big when you take that huge fleece off him. Maybe it's just me but he also losses some of his confidence with that fleece as well and turns into a real pussycat after it's done.

This morning was a scene of happiness and contentment too. To us 45 degree mornings maybe a bit cool but to those poor sheep under all that wool it was like laying in front of a furnace on a hot July day. This time of year the poor ewes were always locked up in the barn to do nothing but lay around until all the lambs were born but now that I am concentrating on the livestock portion of the farm and opened up a little dry lot for them they are in heaven. They have enough room to run a bit, jump around as much as their preggo bellies allow, can nap in the sun or shade depending on their current needs and poke fun at the rams through the fence.

The birthing stalls are open, prepped and ready so when one knows it's time she goes and picks her stall and does the deed. We have to go and check every hour or so for new arrivals but most of the ewes have the routine down now. They just seem very pleased to have a bit more space added to the waiting area of the maternity ward.

Now that I have the sheep all squared away for lambing season it's time to get back on the fence and pay a bit more attention to the bee yard situation.

Bu not today. It's beautiful outside and I should get some work done but I really need to take it easy and rest up a bit.

Keep Prepping Everyone!!!!