2016 CPT Breeding Programme

• This week we have been busy preparing for the Central Progeny Test (CPT) AI. Four flocks have now been sponged and the remaining flocks will be sponged over the weekend. At sponging time we are collecting data on several traits including Weights, BCS, Lameness, Dagginess and Mastitis as well as collecting a DNA sample from all the ewes. All of this data will be vital in the development of the new health index. Where possible the cull ewes also had the reason for their culling recorded, this is critical in the development of a longevity index and we would encourage all LambPlus breeders to do the same.
• The average weight of the ewes to date across all the flocks is 72.42kg with an average BCS of 3.57 which is ideal for mating time. More details will be available next week once recording has been completed.

CPT Ram Collection

We have also been on the road this week, collecting the remainder of the rams from all over the country that were invited to participate in the CPT. Rams are brought to the UCD Lyons Estate “Ram Shed” where they are kept in isolation for three days and then inspected for any health issues before entering the main penned area. Rams are then trained to jump on teaser ewes so that on the day of AI a semen sample can be easily obtained and causing minimum stress to the animal. Rams have their semen quality tested at this point to highlight any potential fertility issues which may result in lower conception rates.