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Housing conditions can have a significant impact on livestock welfare, growth rates, feed intake and disease. Managing ventilation with effective inlet and outlet positioning and uniform air flow through the building will manage temperatures and humidity, reduce concentrations of ammonia, carbon dioxide, remove odour and the build-up of pathogens.
Protection from weather
Sheep and lambs are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, such as cold, heat, rain, and wind. A well-designed shed with the right screens can provide essential shelter, reducing stress and keeping animals healthy. This is especially crucial for lambs, which are more sensitive to cold and wet conditions and at risk of hypothermia. Galebreaker Bayscreens are a low-cost, fast-fit weather protection product, ideal for installing at short notice. One customer shared, “Really pleased with the Galebreaker screens. They keep the wind and rain out but still allow lots of fresh air and light in. Great protection in my lambing pen yard.”
Ideal temperature and ventilation
Good housing ensures optimal temperature control and proper ventilation, which is essential for preventing respiratory issues like pneumonia. When bringing sheep in for lambing, thought needs to be given to adequate side air inlet and outlets, allowing a good flow of air throughout the building. Overcrowded or poorly ventilated sheds can lead to moisture build up, mould, and ammonia accumulation, which negatively impacts sheep health. Bayscreens are quickly deployed and can be taken down after lambing – providing an affordable, flexible weather protection option which still allows ventilation. Read more about our Bayscreens here. Rollerscreens offer variable ventilation, providing weather protection using strong Galebreaker mesh with a quick opening mechanism which allows easy access when needed.
Three things to consider when prepping sheds for lambing
Preparing the lambing shed is crucial for promoting healthy ewes and lambs. First, consider the weather: check long-range forecasts and reflect on past seasons to anticipate potential issues like drafts or dampness. Second, focus on creating warm, dry conditions inside—good ventilation keeps bedding dry and reduces disease risk. Finally, ensure the shed is both weatherproof and well-ventilated.
Temporary solutions like mesh screens or Rollerscreens help control airflow while keeping out rain and wind. Proper preparation results in a comfortable environment, giving lambs a strong start and setting up your flock for success. Ewes that feel safe and comfortable are more likely to bond well with their lambs, promoting better maternal behaviour, which is crucial for lamb development. Read more about prepping for lambing in our blog here.
Bayscreen
Easy-to-fit clip-on systems for permanent or temporary weather protection and ventilation. Bayscreens are ideal for infrequent...
Rollerscreen
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Agridoor Pro Electric
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Agridoor Pro Manual
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Agridoor Classic
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VVS
Galebreaker’s side curtain system, VVS (Variable Ventilation System) is designed to be the ultimate in natural building...
VentTube Fresh
VentTube Fresh provides fresh, draught-free, equally dispersed air at livestock level to remove moisture, gases, airborne...
Farmflex
A DIY screening solution providing fixed systems for weather protection and ventilation in agricultural...