Timing
Things to consider include the physiological state of the sheep, for example if they are pregnant or lactating, their body condition (minimum of CS2), and the seasonal conditions. Avoid shearing during wet and windy weather and ensure sheep have shelter in their paddock after being shorn even in the summer.
Talk to your contractor early to secure quality shearers.
Frequency
Sheep shorn annually should be crutched before shearing, before lambing is a good time. Combine crutching with other husbandry operations to remove dags and stain. This will ensure fleeces are clean at shearing time.
Sheep may be shorn 6-8 months and this will mean there is less requirement for crutching the sheep.
Handling
Curfew sheep (withhold feed for 8 hours) prior to shearing as a full stomach can cause discomfort and increase the risk of health issues, as well as increase the likelihood of a dirty shearing board and dirty/wet wool.
Keep sheep in dry condition prior to shearing eg. overnight in a shed if there is a chance of rain, or wait until wool is dry before shearing.
Have a sheltered, well-ventilated area for shearing with a clean flat surface and ideally small catching pens.
Ensure you have an experienced shearer who handles the sheep gently. Check the sheep’s feet before shearing as this is an ideal opportunity to check for footrot or overgrown hooves.
Plan for treatment of cuts and other injuries during shearing.
Wool
Prepare a clean surface or collection bags to store fleeces in immediately after shearing and have a designated person collecting wool from the shearing board after each sheep is shorn .
Summary
1. Shear at the ‘optimum’ time of the year. Things to consider include the physiological state of the sheep, likely available feed and body condition, optimal tensile strength and position of break, seasonal conditions, weather and available shelter.
2. Always curfew sheep prior to shearing. ‘Full’ sheep are harder to handle and keep comfortable during shearing.
3. Sheep shorn annually should always be crutched prior to shearing.
4. Sheep shorn more frequently (6-8 months) will often have little or no requirement for crutching, at least on a whole flock or mob basis. However, be prepared to crutch or part shear individual animals if they require it.
5. Handle sheep to minimise stress.
6. Prepare as much as possible to prevent shearing cuts. Also prepare for their treatment.
7. Consider your wool harvesting staff. Things to consider include shed safety, quality facilities, an efficient working environment and good communication.