Dairy Sheep

[BeReyt]

Morning,

I am wondering if anyone can shed any light on what is involved in starting a dairy flock? Sourcing ewes, milking system (OAD or TAD), expected litres/lactation length and weaning of lambs (my research so far has shown this to differ between producers)?

My dairy experience lies with cows (and 1 milking of goats for a friend many years ago) though the initial costs of starting my own herd are a bit prohibitive, thus leading me down the path of ewes.

Thank you

 

[Jdunn55]

Have you got experience with non-dairy sheep?

 

[BeReyt]

Have you got experience with non-dairy sheep?

Yes, I had my own flock for a few years but had to sell up due to other commitments.

 

[Bald Rick]

Very niche unless you go in to cheese production.
Near neighbour tried it for a few years then gave up

The real money is on milking camels

 

[BeReyt]

Cheese making doesn't appeal, but I would happily bottle it myself.

Camels, I hear, are rather dear. Though if these dry summers keep up it might not be a bad shout...

 

[Blue.]

If your in Lancs go and see Simon Stott at Chipping.

 

[BeReyt]

If your in Lancs go and see Simon Stott at Chipping.

Thank you, I'll give him a bell. I know the area

 

[Devil's advocate]

Very niche unless you go in to cheese production.
Near neighbour tried it for a few years then gave up

The real money is on milking camels

I thought they milked Frieslands or Lacururnes not Blue Faced Leiester sheep

 

[Devil's advocate]

Must admit, I fancy a couple for rearing cade lambs.

Such disease ridden things, doubt I ever will buy any.