The ram’s ability to influence the key economic trait of growth rate and carcase quality is hard to spot by eye alone.  Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) measure these traits for recorded rams, and can support a producer’s choice of ram.  Research has shown that choosing the right ram using EBVs can add as much as £2 per lamb. 

If you were to consider buying a tractor you would make an external inspection to assess the make, model and general condition.  But you would also ask questions about its horsepower, hours worked and similar performance-related features.  When you buy a ram it will have a significant impact on your expected lamb crop.  Experienced stockmen rely on their eyes, but they can get some valuable assistance by considering performance figures as well.  For rams from flocks recorded by MLC’s Signet Sheepbreeder scheme, EBVs are shown on a simple card, which can be quickly understood. 

On growth rate, the progeny of a ram with a Scan Weight EBV of +4kg can be 2kg heavier at 20/21 weeks, compared with those of a ram with an EBV of 0kg therefore reducing finishing times across the flock.  Muscle and fat EBVs predict overall lean meat yield and ability to produce heavier carcases without becoming over fat therefore improving carcase quality and potentially carcase weights at the required classification.  EBVs help achieve earlier finishing and quality carcases.  A typical advantage of using a ram with better breeding potential is around £2 to £3 per lamb.  Faster growth means taking advantage of better seasonal prices, or the ability to finish more lambs off grass.  For the store finisher, faster growth when the food is ‘switched back on’ is also a valuable trait.

BRP Breeding Events
Learn more about EBVs at BRP breeding events held on farms throughout England.  Call 0870 609 1840 or email brpevents@eblex.org.uk for more information or check the events section of this website.

BRP Literature available on this subject

Sheep BRP Manual  Target Ram Selection for Better Returns
Sheep BRP Leaflet  MOT Your Ram
Sheep BRP Performance Recorded Flock Directory 2007
Sheep BRP DVD Making £££ with Better Returns (order via brp@eblex.org.uk)
Sheep BRP/Signet Manual  Breed a Better Pedigree Flock
Sheep BRP/Signet Pedigree Pointers 1  Accuracy in Signet Sheepbreeder Evaluations
Sheep BRP/Signet Pedigree Pointers 2  Connectedness in Sheepbreeder Evaluations
Sheep BRP/Signet Pedigree Pointers 3  Performance Recording -; Lleyn Sheep