Worming and parasite-control strategies are changing as traditional patterns of infection become less predictable, according to a survey of 360 producers.
Some 41% of respondents reported changes in the timing of parasite challenges, while 34% were encountering problems they did not see or recognise five years ago. Haemonchus emerged as the clearest new concern. The Elanco survey, conducted between March and April and released at the NSA Sheep Event, found 85% of respondents had changed their approach to parasite management in recent years.
“The findings show farmers are seeing changes in both timing and the nature of risks, and many are adapting their approach as a result,” said Elanco ruminant technical consultant Matt Colston.
Testing tools
Visual signs remain the most common guide to worm-control decisions, used by 76% of respondents. But 59% regularly use faecal egg counts and 33% seek veterinary advice. Only a fifth of respondents said they regularly weighed animals to help determine treatment – despite the potential for monitoring growth rates to identify problems earlier.
Farmers are also making greater use of newer wormer groups. Some 66% use group 4 and 5 products as quarantine treatments for new or returning sheep, while 45% use them for mid-season break doses in lambs.
Exmoor farmers Richard and Laura Stanbury have combined faecal egg counts with scanning data, body condition scoring and daily liveweight gain monitoring.
The approach has reduced routine treatment, said Mr Stanbury. “We’ve made a policy of FEC testing one mob and dropping the samples off at the vet every Wednesday. Now the lambs are weaned, we’re also doing regular daily liveweight gain monitoring to help inform decisions about worm treatments.”