How long do I wait before examining a lambing ewe that has not yet produced any lambs?
The majority of pregnancies in sheep last from 146 to 148 days although the normal range is between 140 and 150 days. Signs of impending lambing include the udder filling up with colostrum, and the ewe taking more interest in other new born lambs. Once uterine contractions begin the ewe will tend to take herself away from the rest of the flock and may start to look uncomfortable, scratching around her chosen lambing spot, getting up and down frequently and licking her lips. Once her cervix has opened due to hormonal changes, and the uterine contractions have moved the lamb into position in the pelvic canal the ewe is stimulated to start actively contracting her abdominal muscles to aid the process. The first thing you will see is the ‘water bag’ appearing at the vulva. However if the ‘waterbag’ has already burst you may just notice that the ewe has a wet tail. Most ewes will now proceed for a few more pushes and produce their lambs with no outside aid, and the lambs will be up and sear
