Cheviot sheep in NI
Project Aims
- Assessment and development of the role of Cheviot sheep on upland farms in Northern Ireland.
Objectives/targets
- Evaluation of the productivity and carcase quality of Cheviot sheep in areas traditionally grazed by the Scottish Blackface.
- Development of breeding programmes utilising the Cheviot, geared to improvements in lamb carcases from Less Favoured Areas.
Justification
- There is a need to monitor the productivity and profitability of Cheviots on areas of green, well-drained hill land.
Technology transferred/system being developed
- Breed substitution to utilise :
1. The mothering ability and hardiness of the Wicklow Cheviot
2. Superior conformation of the North-Country Cheviot type
Methods used
- Measurement of weaning weights and assessment of carcase quality relative to Scottish Blackface.
- Assess the value of cross-bred ewe lambs, for example Suffolk x Cheviot, on lowland areas.
- Ultra-sonic scanning to select flock replacements.
- Monitoring of the physical and financial performance of sheep flocks on participating farm using a computerised recording package.
Potential benefits
- Improvement in the quality of lamb carcases from upland farms.
- Improved business competitiveness and profitability of upland sheep farming systems.
For further information contact lewis.mcclinton@dardni.gov.ukLewis McClinton
