With an ageing population of sheep farmers and ongoing labour shortages, many farms are turning to technology to improve efficiency and reduce manual workload at key periods such as weaning time.

Irish sheep farms were among the first to adopt electronic identification (EID) tagging to enhance animal movement tracking and traceability beyond the farm gate.

Leading this technological shift is Datamars Livestock, whose portfolio of trusted brands, including Tru-Test weighing systems, Z Tags, Simcro, NJ Phillips, and Hayes fencing, has become a familiar presence on livestock farms across Ireland.

Weaning presents an ideal opportunity to evaluate ewe performance - both in terms of lamb-rearing ability and body condition score (BCS).

By using Datamars EID tags and Tru-Test readers in combination with farm recording software at lambing, tracking individual ewe performance becomes much easier.

The data obtained through this software and devices helps identify how each ewe contributes to the overall profitability of the enterprise.

It is not uncommon for 20-30% of the flock to be in suboptimal BCS at weaning. These ewes should be prioritised for access to high-quality grass immediately post-weaning, to help them reach ideal condition for mating later in the autumn.

Feed should only be restricted for 7-10 days post-weaning to help dry off the ewe’s milk supply. Prolonged restriction beyond this period can lead to unnecessary body weight loss, which must be regained before mating.

The top priority should be allocating the farm's best-quality grass to growing lambs in order to maximise daily live weight gains.

At the same time, many farms will need to begin building a wedge of grass for autumn grazing and flushing ewes.

It may make economic sense to give priority grazing to lambs over 38kg liveweight, aiming to finish them off grass alone - especially while market prices are under pressure.

As prices improve, farmers can choose to sell forward store lambs or introduce meal to remaining lambs over 35kg at a rate of 300-500g/head/day to maximise farm output.

Lambs should continue to be weighed and drafted on a weekly basis.

Investing in a good handling and weighing system, such as the Prattley system (as demonstrated in the video above), can significantly reduce time and stress for both animals and handlers.

Lameness significantly impacts on both lamb growth and ewe condition, as lame animals struggle to consume enough grass.

Sheep are natural selective grazers, roaming to pick preferred plants, but lameness restricts this behaviour, leading to reduced performance.

Using Datamars permanent EID sheep tags in combination with a Tru-Test EID Reader featuring Bluetooth technology, offers a simple and efficient way to record and monitor animals with recurring lameness.

This enables better management decisions and more targeted treatment, ultimately improving flock health and productivity.

Appropriate treatment for parasites is critical to support optimal lamb growth rates, and important not to overlook the flock’s mineral requirements at weaning.

Many farmers routinely administer oral mineral supplements at this stage - giving lambs a strong start post-weaning and helping to replenish the ewe's mineral reserves following the demands of the rearing season.

Datamars supports animal flock health management with trusted tools like the NJ Phillips and Simcro ranges of animal health delivery systems.

Irish farmers have relied on these for decades to administer drenches and supplements accurately and efficiently.

Datamars specialises in designing and developing tools that enhance labour efficiency and make a measurable difference on Irish farms.

Their products are built to be easy to use, quick to operate, and highly durable, helping farmers increase productivity with less effort.

Z Tags offer comprehensive sheep tagging solutions that improve the overall tagging process. These tools streamline on farm workflows, reduce stress for livestock, and ensure consistent, reliable identification.

Z for Sheep Tags are engineered for exceptional retention and ease of use. The system features retractable pliers with five precision pivots, a spring-loaded ergonomic handle, and a lightweight, balanced design. This innovative approach minimises the risk of ear tearing and significantly improves operator comfort. The enhanced applicator makes tagging faster, smoother, and less stressful for both animals and handlers. With fewer lost tags and a reduced need for re-tagging, Z Tags deliver outstanding long-term performance.

Another key innovation is the Z Tags TagFaster Automatic Applicator. Capable of holding 20 individual slaughter tags or 10 pairs of breeding tags, it enables fast, stress-free application. Its unique design - featuring a sharp point and instant ear release, ensures precise tag positioning while minimising stress for both the animal and the operator.

These practical innovations from Datamars help farmers achieve significant improvements in efficiency and animal welfare, delivering measurable results.

Whether you are new to Datamars or a long-time customer, now is a great time to get in touch. We have something for everyone, because loyalty matters to us just as much as new opportunities.

Contact us today to see what is available and start making the most of our tagging solutions.