By Roelof Bezuidenhout

Rams top the list of things that can go wrong on a sheep farm. They’re expensive, essential for producing a good lamb crop, and critical to the genetic improvement of your flock. That’s why it’s so important to consider several key points before buying a ram that could derail your breeding plan.

First, make sure the ram is true to type. A Dorper should look like a Dorper, and a Merino should look like a typical Merino. This can be tricky for the inexperienced farmer, as some crossbreeds closely resemble purebreds. Avoid rams with obvious physical faults such as poor leg structure, a weak jaw, or a “devil’s grip” across the shoulders. In wool breeds, watch out for undesirable traits like hairiness around the tail or too little belly wool.

Familiarise yourself with the breed standards before buying. If you’re unsure of your ability to select a good ram, it’s well worth getting expert advice. Keep in mind that the wrong ram will introduce undesirable traits in your flock that could end up costing you in the long run.

Basic checks

When you visit a breeder’s farm to buy a ram, take a look at the ewes – if they’re around – and ask yourself whether that’s the type of sheep you want in your own flock. If the answer is no, or if the animals are in poor condition and show signs of poor health, walk away.

If you decide to proceed, take your time comparing the young rams in the pen before selecting a few for closer inspection. Open their mouths – young rams are typically sold at the two-tooth stage. Older rams may be cheaper, but they generally have a shorter working life, so weigh the cost against long-term productivity.

Next, inspect each ram’s testicles carefully. They should not be hard, swollen, unusually small, or have any abnormal lumps. Larger testicles are typically associated with higher fertility. Also check for a split scrotum, and testicles that sit too high or hang too low – low-hanging testicles are more prone to injury.

Many farmers overlook these basic checks simply because they’re in a hurry, but skipping them can be a costly mistake.

Keep in mind that not all fertility problems are visible. Epididymitis – commonly referred to as ram’s disease – is one such issue. It is caused by the bacterium Brucella ovis, is sexually transmitted, and leads to inflammation of the testicles and infertility. Unlike bulls, rams are less frequently tested for fertility or sexually transmitted diseases, partly because testing is costly and complicated.

What’s more, an infertile ram often shows no outward signs. He will still mate with ewes but fewer will conceive, and the disease will quietly spread through your flock. Always ask the breeder whether young rams have been vaccinated against Brucella ovis infection. Keep in mind, however, that the Rev 1 vaccine isn’t available everywhere.

Tips for buyers and sellers:

Ensure rams have been vaccinated against epididymitis before four months of age.
Only introduce newly bought rams to your flock if they have been tested and are confirmed disease-free, just like your existing clean rams.
Cull any rams that test positive for infection.
If you breed your own rams, keep young, vaccinated rams separate from adult rams. Rams often mount one another, which can spread infection.