The use of ultrasound scanning in sheep provides a measurement method for body composition in sheep breeding programs, aiming to improve carcass yield and body size while optimizing fat content.

Schematic diagram of measuring sheep backfat eye muscle

When should ultrasound scans be performed on lambs?

Traditionally, breeders are required to scan lambs at 21 weeks of age, when their weight is at least 45 kilograms.

Scan more lambs before slaughter.

2. The measured lamb is closer to the commercial slaughter weight.

3. It is possible to consider improving the scanning equipment.

4. It can reflect the constantly changing breeding objectives. Modern choices focus more on increasing meat production rather than reducing body fat.

If the breeding farm is willing, it is now possible to scan lambs around 17 weeks old, provided that:

The range of lambing dates is relatively narrow to avoid scanning a large number of very young lambs

The average weight of lambs is at least 35 kilograms, with the lightest weighing over 30 kilograms

Lambs exhibit differences in fat coverage/surface (ideally>2mm fat depth)

Breeders now have greater flexibility in arranging scans of lambs. They do need to use judgment to ensure that lambs grow well and show differences in fat coverage. In recent years, breeders have scanned lambs at a younger age, and most flocks have reached satisfactory weight at this age. Some sheep are scanning for lambs that are lighter than the recommended weight. However, this is often not because they are young.

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