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The Welfare Implications of Shepherding During Lambing in Extensive New Zealand Farming Systems

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 January 2023

M W Fisher  and
D J Mellor
M W Fisher*
Affiliation:
AgResearch Poukawa, PO Box 8144, Havelock North, New Zealand
D J Mellor
Affiliation:
Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
*
* Contact for correspondence and requests for reprints: [email protected]
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Abstract

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A review of the literature was undertaken to consider the possible effects of human intervention (shepherding) at around the time of parturition in extensively farmed sheep. There is little clear empirical evidence to suggest that shepherding ensures either easy births or the integrity of ewe–lamb contact — factors closely linked to the welfare of the animals at this time. There is similarly no clear support for shepherding being harmful. However, the following suggestions are made: first, human presence can inhibit or delay parturition; second, extended parturition can increase the risk of, or is associated with, dystocia; and third, disturbance at birth can compromise ewe-lamb bonding and consequently lamb survival. Furthermore, sheep populations that have undergone rigorous selection for ease of lambing and minimal shepherding in extensive environments have well-documented physical and behavioural traits underlying their predisposition for enhanced lamb survival. Although our cultural legacy may impose a duty to intensively monitor animals at lambing, it is concluded that, at least in some situations, shepherding may not be entirely beneficial. The commonly held view of the necessity for some human intervention in extensive livestock systems is perhaps overly paternalistic, and requires a more comprehensive appraisal.

Keywords

animal welfaredisturbanceeasy-carelambingsheepshepherd
Type
Research Article
Information
Animal Welfare , Volume 11 , Issue 2 , May 2002 , pp. 157 - 170
Copyright
© 2002 Universities Federation for Animal Welfare

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