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This is presenting two potential risks. The first is a risk of overfat outwintered ewes going on their back, particularly during mild weather. Where this is the case ewes should be checked regularly.
Some farmers who have had numerous cases have found placing a piece of equipment, tractor trailer, etc in the field that ewes can scratch on may help; while in other cases there has been no option but to house. The second risk is a danger of nutritional issues and prolapse in late pregnancy.
Feeding management will need to be precise to avoid problems in late pregnancy, with a split feeding programme and offering of high-energy forage helping to reduce the risk.
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