When it comes to sheep giving birth to twins, there are a few factors that come into play. One important factor is the nutrition of the ewe. In order to increase the chances of a ewe having twins, it is recommended to feed her a little extra energy, such as grain, two weeks before breeding. This process is known as flushing.
Flushing is essentially providing the ewe with the necessary nutrients and energy she needs to support the growth of multiple lambs. By giving her that extra boost, her nutritional needs are met, and she has that little extra energy to put into growing the lambs.
I have personally experienced the benefits of flushing in my own flock. I remember one breeding season when I decided to try flushing my ewes. I increased their grain intake for two weeks leading up to breeding, and the results were remarkable. Many of the ewes ended up giving birth to twins, which was a pleasant surprise.
The concept behind flushing is simple. By providing the ewe with an abundance of nutrients, her body is better able to support the growth of multiple lambs. This is because the ewe’s reproductive system requires a certain level of energy and nutrients to produce and sustain multiple embryos.
During flushing, it is important to monitor the ewe’s body condition to ensure she doesn’t become overweight or underweight. It’s a delicate balance, as you want to provide enough energy without overdoing it. Consulting with a veterinarian or an experienced shepherd can help determine the appropriate amount of grain to feed during this time.
In addition to flushing, genetics also play a role in the likelihood of a ewe having twins. Some sheep breeds are more prone to producing twins than others. For example, certain breeds like the Finn sheep are known for their high twinning rates.
It’s important to note that not all ewes will respond to flushing in the same way. Some may have a higher likelihood of producing twins regardless of their nutrition, while others may benefit greatly from the extra energy provided during flushing.
Feeding a little extra energy, such as grain, to a ewe two weeks before breeding can increase her chances of having twins. This process, known as flushing, ensures that the ewe’s nutritional needs are met and that she has that extra energy to put into growing multiple lambs. However, it’s important to consider the ewe’s body condition and genetics, as these factors also play a role in the likelihood of twinning.