RUTLAND FAST RAMS

GENETICS

We have been breeding and Signet recording our expanding flock of 175 ewes since 2014 for use in our own Mule flock and have been selecting for the highest performance traits. Our aim is to continue increasing the Terminal Index year on year to produce the FASTEST growing rams possible with deep lean loins and gigots. To this end we have been CT scanning our 10 best ram lambs since 2021 for more accurate information.

There are various percentages of Suffolk and Texel in the Rams which gives them hybrid vigour. Nearly all the rams are in the top 1% for overall performance in the Suffolk evaluation;

In 2019 there were 4 Suffolk Ram Lambs with Indexes over 400, of which 1 was ours. Our highest 410.

In 2020 there were 2 Suffolk Ram Lambs with Indexes over 400, of which 1 was ours. Our highest 479.

In 2021 there were 13 Suffolk Ram Lambs with Indexes over 400, of which 5 were ours. Our highest 586.

In 2022 there are 30 Suffolk Ram Lambs with Indexes over 400, of which 15 were ours. Our highest 490.

In 2023 there are 48 Suffolk Ram Lambs with Indexes over 400, of which 32 were ours. Our highest 490.

From the above figures the annual increase in genetic merit is plain to see. We intend to continue this progress by purchasing the highest index rams available in both the Suffolk and Texel breeds each year.

We are breeding for the highest growth rate of lean carcase for our own flock of creep fed lambs and can grow to 23Kg without getting over fat.

ECONOMICS

The progeny will come to market 10 days earlier, and on a normally falling market will be worth £6/head more. We estimate feed costs saved for 10 days is about £4/head, some £10 per lamb in total.

In any one year, one of our rams tupping 50 ewes, producing 80 lambs at plus £10 over an average index ram will produce an extra £800 income. Over four years this equates to an extra £3200.

We start lambing on 20thFebruary and last year 54% of 7,000 lambs were sold by the end June averaging 19.6Kg dead weight with 93% E, U & R conformation and 97% fat class 2-3H.

With bulk Creep Feed at £400 per tonne these are ideal rams to produce the fastest growth rate for creep feeding systems and well managed grass fattening farms where speed of finishing is critical to minimise the cost of feed per lamb, and at a higher price of lamb per Kg.

RUTLAND FAST RAM BENEFITS

Consistent quality direct from farm. Fit not Fat. Ready to work.

With Hybrid vigour our rams hold condition all through tupping and are still well fleshed in December and they have no feed until the next June. This vigour also gives them an extended life.

All rams are fully vaccinated with Heptavac P Plus, Footax and Glanvax (CLA).

The flock is monitored for Maedi Visna (MV) and all our Shearling Rams were tested with no positives in June this year.

Rams are guaranteed until 30th November 2024. They would be replaced or the purchase price deducted from the next year’s purchase.

Rams will be ready for inspection from July and viewing will be in strict order of people contacting me. The same order of viewing will continue each year as long as you have bought rams the previous year, so don’t miss out and get to the front of the queue!