Red sky in the morning – LLS warning

A red sky in the morning has been long known as a shepherd’s warning to prepare for bad weather and with a cold front moving across the state, the Local Land Services have issued their own warning for all livestock produces to prepare for the cold snap.

This morning’s sunrise in Scone. Photo: Cheryl Hunter.

Scott Ison, animal biosecurity and welfare business partner said there are several ways livestock producers can prepare.

“We all know winter can be a shock to the system for us, as well as our livestock, so it is important producers are thinking about what they can do to ease the effects on their animals,” Mr Ison said.

“If possible, landholders should move their at risk livestock to sheltered paddocks and increase their feed to meet the extra energy requirements the cold weather brings,” he said.

“When temperatures drop, livestock need more energy to stay warm, so producers should consider increasing their feeding levels by 10 to 20 percent, especially if there is rain and strong winds.

“Animals that are most at risk, such as freshly shorn sheep, sick animals, calving cows, lambing ewes and newly born lambs and calves, should be checked regularly while the cold conditions persist.”

Andrew Lieschkey, agriculture and plant biosecurity business partner, said it was also time for producers to consider the feed and water requirements they may need during winter.

“For most, winter to early spring is when the feed gap is most likely to occur, as the days are cooler and daylight is shorter, resulting in slower pasture growth,” Mr Lieschke said.

“Understanding your available pasture and animal requirements will allow producers to predict their feed gap and stay as productive as possible through winter.”

“Thinking about this now, will allow you to forward plan and make on farm management decisions early.

“Ensuring livestock maintain appropriate condition through winter is vital moving into spring lambing, calving or joining, and has a big impact on productivity.”

For further advice on managing livestock during cold snaps and winter, please contact your local veterinarian, agricultural advisor or closest Local Land Services office: 1300 795 299.