In the past, drenching has been the only way to manage this – but in all species, we are seeing parasites become resistant to drenches. So, we need to consider other ways to manage parasites.   

Be it a paddock where lambs have grazed, calves have fed, or fawns have lived, there will be parasites there from previous grazing. Removing these parasites will help the next lot of animals grazing. We can ‘remove’ them by burying them. Turning the ground over with a plough, discs, or other cultivation will reduce the parasite load.    

Some paddocks may have had a lot of parasites dumped on them during the autumn – if they are due for pasture renewal, great! If you’re expecting ewes to shed undesirable parasites during lambing, putting ewes in these paddocks will mean these parasites will be buried shortly. It’s especially something to consider if long-acting drench is used. Also, preparing these fields for crop will mean that your lambs will not be grazing them after weaning, when they are very susceptible to last autumn’s burdens. Make the most of burying parasites!  

New fodder/grass provides a great opportunity for low parasite feeding, which is a real bonus for young susceptible stock of all species. However, we do need to be careful with this and refugia needs to be considered so you don’t create a zone of only resistant parasites.    

If you don’t know what some of these terms mean, or you need help making the most of these opportunities, please reach out. We would love to help!