Sheep shearing is more than just a seasonal activity; it's a time-honoured tradition deeply rooted in British agriculture. As the days grow warmer and the flock’s wool thickens, the practice of shearing becomes paramount for the welfare of the sheep.
Why Shearing Matters:
Health and Comfort: As temperatures rise, sheep are prone to heat stress, especially when burdened with a heavy fleece. Shearing removes this excess wool, allowing sheep to regulate their body temperature more effectively, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Hygiene and Disease Prevention: A thick wool coat can harbour dirt, moisture, and parasites, leading to skin conditions and infections. Regular shearing helps maintain cleanliness, reducing the likelihood of infestations and promoting healthier sheep.
When to Shear:
In the UK, shearing typically occurs in late spring or early summer, aligning with the warmer months when sheep are at risk of overheating. The exact timing depends on various factors, including the breed of sheep, local climate conditions, and intended use of the wool.
What to use:
Selecting the right equipment is essential for a successful sheep shearing operation. Here's a breakdown of the tools you'll need:
1. Horner Longhorn Shearing Machine
Designed and manufactured in the UK, the Longhorn XT has become one of the most popular machines amongst farmers worldwide. The mains powered Longhorn XT produces a ½ bhp giving you the power you need to get the job done and has the ability to conquer any challenge.
2. Horner Rambo Quickdraw (24V)
Offering an efficient solution for clipping, the Horner Rambo Quickdraw is easy to use for all year round jobs, as well as for shearing and dagging. The clippers will enable you to shear for up to 2 hours, making them a reliable tool for on farm.
3. Agrihealth Farm Pro Cordless
The FarmPro Livestock Clipper is a highly durable livestock clipper with an ergonomic design that reduces operator fatigue and discomfort. The set comes with 2 rechargeable batteries so one can be charging while the other is in use.
4. Lister Nova Shearing Machine
With the single-speed, double-insulated Lister Nova, shearing becomes a safe and confident task on the farm. Whether shearing a few sheep or tackling larger flocks, the Lister Nova delivers reliability and efficiency, making it an effective tool for farmers across the UK.
5. Strike Cordless Animal Clipper
These cordless sheep clippers are perfect for those difficult environments where a power supply isn't available. Powered by 4.0Ah lithium rechargeable batteries and a 180 watt motor, the Strike is the ultimate cordless clipping machine when it comes to convenience and being portable.
6. Daggaway Comb & Daggaway Cutter
The Daggaway comb has been purposely designed by Welsh Shearing for Farmers. It’s a universal comb ideal for dagging, tailing, clipping sheep or cattle and also perfect for novice shearing. Our Daggaway shearing cutter is also a firm-favourite with farmers and it can be used left or right handed.
7. Lister Cutters and Combs
When it comes to working with livestock, the quality of your tools can make all the difference. Our Lister Shearing Combs and Cutters are trusted by farmers for their exceptional performance and durability.
8. Lister Clipper Oil
When it comes to maintaining your clippers, nothing beats the reliability and performance of Lister Clipper Oil. Specially formulated to meet the unique demands of clipping equipment, this high-quality oil ensures smooth and efficient operation, prolonging the life of your clippers and minimising wear and tear.
9. Lister Shearing Vest
Whether you're shearing a few sheep or tackling a large flock, the Lister Shearing Vest is the ideal choice for shearers who demand the best in comfort.
10. Ridgeline Smock
Crafted by Ridgeline, a brand renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation, this smock is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures while providing unparalleled comfort in any weather condition.
In conclusion, sheep shearing is not just a task; it's a vital aspect of sheep husbandry with significant implications for animal welfare. By understanding the importance of shearing and timing it correctly, British farmers can ensure their flocks remain in cool in summer months.