Setting up a sheep feedlot

Part 2

Building on Part 1 from last month’s newsletter, this continuation dives deeper into essential strategies and practical tips for successfully setting up a Sheep Feedlot.

Setting Your Lambs Up for Success

Live Weight and Condition

Early-life nutrition plays a critical role in feed conversion efficiency. Introducing imprint feeding early, before the animal’s nutritional demands peak, significantly reduces the risk of shy feeders while enhancing overall feed conversion rate. Greater physical performance in the feedlot is achieved when lambs enter with a minimum live weight of 25 kg and at least a fat score of 2.

Live weight is an important factor when selecting lambs. Having access to scales is fundamental for effective management, allowing producers to monitor lamb performance over time. Drafting lambs according to live weight and size, providing a low-stress environment, and ensuring adequate trough length will help minimise the incidence of shy feeders.

Setting up a feedlot to suit your objectives

From using old tyres and a length of conveyor belt for makeshift feed troughs to self-feeders and automatic feed systems there are many considerations to think about.

Starting the Feeding Process

Rations typically fall into two categories:

• Starter Ration: A low-grain diet that helps lambs adapt to high-grain content while minimising the risk of digestive issues.
• Finisher Ration: A high-energy ration that is low in roughage and well-balanced for protein, optimising growth rates and feed efficiency.

A 14-day introductory grain period is recommended to acclimatise lambs to a grain-based diet. During this period, lambs may consume around 15–20 kg of feed, but significant weight gain is unlikely. Any shy feeders or sick lambs identified during this phase should be removed from the feedlot pen and addressed accordingly.

Transitioning to the Finisher Ration

A gradual transition from the starter to finisher ration is essential, with a focus on maintaining the health and productivity of the lambs throughout the process. By following this approach to feed lotting, lamb producers can maximise profitability while ensuring the health and welfare of their livestock.

Ready to optimise your feedlot?

Explore our sheep stockfeed range here or call 1300 REID FEED 1300 734 333)  or enquire here to schedule a farm visit with one of our expert nutritionists for practical feeding solutions.

Author

Christopher Moutray
Sales and Nutrition Account Manager