As the chill of winter begins to fade away we’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new season: lambing time! If you’re curious about what goes into preparing for these cute additions on our farm, you’re in the right place.
Within Occombe we have two locations where we welcome our spring lambs. These include Farm Park & Play which attracts visitors all year round to get up and close to our farm animals, and our working farm which provides a home to sheep in the winter before they move to graze on our land in the summer.
Here’s a roundup of the measures we take to prepare for the arrival of our spring lambs.
1. Preparing the Perfect Nursery: Before the first lamb arrives, we prepare our lambing sheds which provide a safe and warm environment for ewes to give birth and bond with their new-borns. From clean bedding to ample ventilation, every detail is carefully considered to ensure the comfort and well-being of both mother and lamb.
2. Keeping an Eye on Mama: Did you know that ewes have a remarkable instinct for caring for their young? We keep a close eye on pregnant ewes, providing them with extra TLC as they prepare to give birth. Regular health checks and nutritious meals help ensure that each mother is in prime condition for the big day.
3. Embracing the Unexpected: While we do our best to prepare for every eventuality, lambing season can be full of surprises. From unexpected twins to the occasional breech birth, no two deliveries are exactly alike.
4. Celebrating New Beginnings: From tiny bleats to wobbly first steps, each new arrival is met with wonder and excitement. Our visitors are invited to share in this by joining us at Farm Park & Play to meet the newest members of our flock up close.
5. Preserving Traditions, Embracing Innovation: While the essence of lambing season remains timeless, modern farming practices have brought new tools and techniques to the table. From ultrasound scans to digital record-keeping, we leverage the latest innovations to ensure the health of all our animals.
Be sure to check back soon for more updates. We will soon be preparing for our calving season!
