What Do I Do With My Sheep In A Storm

Shelter may include:

• Trees.
• Shelter belts.
• Hedges.
• Gullies.
• Natural land contours.

If sheep already have access to shelter, move to Step 2.

If not, consider moving sheep to a paddock with better protection before the weather arrives.

Even a small amount of shelter can make a significant difference during prolonged wind and rain.

If you already have a winter paddock identified, move to Step 3.

If not, identify one now by following the process in the Winter Plan.

Your winter paddock should be the area that can handle pressure better than the rest of the farm during difficult weather.

In recent years, Auckland and Northland have experienced several severe weather events that caused widespread flooding.

Even if your property has never flooded before, it's worth considering what you would do if heavy rain arrived for several days in a row.

Ask yourself:

• Which paddocks flood first?
• Which paddocks become isolated?
• Which areas become difficult to access?
• Are there any low-lying areas sheep could become trapped in?

If flooding could become an issue, identify your highest and driest paddocks now.

If a major weather event is forecast:

• Move sheep early.
• Avoid low-lying paddocks.
• Avoid paddocks surrounded by rising water.
• Ensure sheep have access to shelter and clean water.

If flooding is unlikely, continue monitoring weather forecasts and paddock conditions.

Remember that flooding can occur even on properties that rarely experience it if rainfall is severe enough.

Look for:

• Heavily pregnant ewes.
• Older sheep.
• Ewes carrying triplets.
• Sheep that appear lighter than the rest of the mob.

These sheep may benefit from:

• Better shelter.
• Better feed.
• Closer observation.
• A more sheltered paddock.
• Forward grazing ahead of the main mob.

If no sheep are standing out as vulnerable, move to Step 5.

Check:

• Water troughs are working properly.
• Gates can still be opened.
• Access tracks are usable.
• Temporary fencing is secure.
• Water lines are protected from flooding where possible.

Fixing these issues now is much easier than doing it during a storm.

If something needs attention, address it before severe weather arrives.

Sheep may spend more time sheltering and less time actively grazing during severe weather.

Ask yourself:

• Is there enough grass where the sheep are going?
• Will they still have access to quality feed?
• Are heavily pregnant ewes adequately fed?
• Will the paddock still hold up if conditions become very wet?

If feed is suitable, continue monitoring conditions.

If not, consider adjusting your rotation before the weather arrives.

Moving sheep onto a more suitable paddock early is usually easier than reacting once conditions deteriorate.