Where Have All the Ewes Gone? Unpacking Culling & Mortality in NZ Flocks

In this episode, host Ellen Eyre sits down with Dr Anne Ridler (Massey University) to explore her recently published study of ewe culling and mortality across 34 commercial sheep flocks in New Zealand. During this chat, Anne highlights the various reasons why, on average, nearly 11 percent of ewes put to the ram never make it to docking—and why another 4 percent present wet-dry. Possibly one of the most eye‑opening observations is the variation between farms, indicating that flock-specific insights and interventions are required in order to reduce ewe culling and mortality. 

Drawing on first‑hand interviews with farmers and on‑farm culling observations, Anne shares practical advice on culling and who should be making these decisions. You’ll learn why consistent body condition scoring (even by eye after shearing), drafting light ewes early and focusing on nutrition can reduce mortality and improve your flock's efficiency. Whether you’re a vet passionate about productivity or a sheep farmer keen to lift efficiency, this episode gives you the tools to answer one big question: where do all the ewes go?

Udder palpation video mentioned during the episode: https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/video/examining-ewes-udders-identify-possible-problems