Auto lamb weighers to give in-field trial insights

A lamb performance project gathering growth rate data automatically through in-field weigh crates is under way.

Four farms are trialling the low-stress method, which combines a walk-over weigher, creep feed attractant, and climb-on platform.

A data-handling app has been developed alongside the weighers in the Defra- and Innovate UK-funded initiative being co-ordinated through the UK Agri-Tech Centre and the National Sheep Association (NSA).

See also: Why and when farmers should weigh sheep

The collaborative “Lamb Monitor” partnership aims to develop a weighing system that captures all the efficiency gains of regular weight gain capture without the stress and hassle for humans and sheep.

During the project, three different Ritchie designs will be tested.

Welfare benefits

A spokesman from the UK Agri-tech centre said: “The automation of lamb weighing offers significant welfare improvements for both animals and farmers.

“Less frequent handling and gathering reduces stress for lambs, resulting in a higher-welfare product.

“For farmers, the technology frees up time to focus on other aspects of their enterprise or to achieve a better work-life balance.”

NSA project manager Nicola Noble said the technology should cut costs, save time and potentially improve animal health and welfare, as well as increase data recording and accuracy.