Effect of Birth and Rearing Type on Lamb Weaning Weight

Lambs born and reared as singles are 7 kg heavier at weaning than those born and reared as twins, with birth weight and milk supply from the dam being key factors. Ewes rearing twins produce 40% more milk than those rearing singles, but twin-reared lambs receive 30% less milk. Triplets have lower birth weights but similar weaning weights due to higher daily gains. At Teagasc Athenny, Ireland, ewes with triplets or quadruplets receive 7 kg more concentrate in late pregnancy. Lambs reared as triplets get up to 300 g concentrate daily from two weeks old. Ewes with triplets suckling three lambs get 0.5 kg concentrate daily for five weeks post-lambing. Data on birth weight, daily gain, and weaning weight by birth and rearing type is presented in Table 1.