Fostering lambs is a skill in sheep husbandry - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2013

1. Rub Birth Membranes: Immediately after birth, birth membranes or fluids from the host ewe can be rubbed onto the orphan lamb. This method helps mask the smell of the orphan lamb so that the ewe can accept it more readily.

2. Use a Fostering Crate: Placing the orphan lamb in a fostering crate allows the ewe to interact with it without the lamb being able to suckle immediately. This observation ensures the ewe bonds with the lamb before the actual fostering process begins.

3. Introducing the Lamb Gradually: By first allowing the ewe to lick the orphan lamb clean, the bonding process begins. After a period, the lamb can be placed in close proximity to the ewe (but kept separated) to observe their acceptance behavior.

Overcrowding in cattle sheds can lead to several serious health issues. Primarily, it restricts feeding space, air circulation, and general floor space, which can result in stress among the animals. This stress can lead to aggressive behaviors, injuries, and increased susceptibility to diseases as animals are forced into closer quarters, facilitating the spread of pathogens. Additionally, insufficient space may cause the accumulation of manure, which can lead to unhygienic conditions and the proliferation of harmful parasites.

One significant effect of overstocking in paddock situations is the overgrazing of available forage. This not only leads to a depletion of food resources for the livestock but can also result in soil degradation and reduced pasture yield in subsequent seasons.

1. Suffolk or Charolais: These breeds are preferred for their rapid growth rates and efficient meat production qualities.

2. Hybrid, Greyface, or Blueface Leicester: These ewe types are selected for their prolificacy and mothering abilities, which are crucial for successful lambing outcomes.

The choice of Suffolk or Charolais ram breeds is justified by their ability to produce lambs with a fast growth rate, ensuring early fattening. Meanwhile, the hybrid or greyface ewes have established reputations for excellent maternal instincts, thus supporting high survival rates for the lambs. Their mothering ability contributes significantly to the overall success of lamb production.