Buying a Recorded Ram
Ram Buying Tips
There are a number of factors to consider when buying a ram using performance records
- Set breeding objectives that will optimise the profitability of your flock
- Talk to the ram breeder about your requirements
- Select rams with the right Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) to realise these objectives
- Review their EBVs using the search engine at www.signetdata.com
- Compare each ram’s EBVs against the Breed Benchmark to identify their strengths and weaknesses for the latest breed benchmark click www.signetfbc.co.uk/terminal-sire-evaluation
- Remember EBVs can be compared between flocks, but not between breeds
- Buy early to ensure the availability of a wide selection of recorded rams and allow time for adequate quarantine, this should be at least four weeks before bought in animals are mixed with the rest of the flock
- It pays to invest. The difference between an average ram and one with high EBVs could be worth more than £500 during its lifetime.
- Look after the health and nutritional requirements of your ram to ensure he has a long productive life
For further information, please read this useful AHDB leaflet:
Buying A Recorded Ram https://beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Buying-a-recorded-ram-for-terminal-sire-traits.pdf