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OviCast

OviCast is the Teagasc Sheep podcast.

Presented by Ciaran Lynch it brings you the latest advice, insights and technical updates for the sheep industry.

Visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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21 episodes
weekly
Avg 18 min
English

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#328
August 21 · 23 min
The Sheep Enterprise at Mountbellew Agricultural College
We catch up with Mountbellew Agricultural College farm manager, Ronan Grealis, and enterprise lecturer, Barry Boner, ahead of the upcoming Irish Grassland Association Sheep Event on Thursday, 27 August. We get an overview of the college farm and its various enterprises before focusing on the sheep system. Ronan and Barry discuss the flock, split-lambing system, breeding and performance recording, as well as the grazing setup and approach to lamb finishing. We also hear more about the agricultural courses delivered at the college and the role of the farm in providing practical training for students. The episode also gives an insight into what farmers can expect from the upcoming IGA Sheep Event, which will focus on flock performance, grassland management, genetics and lamb finishing at Mountbellew Agricultural College. For more information on the event: https://www.irishgrassland.ie/event-detail/iga-sheep-event/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#327
August 11 · 15 min
August Management Notes
We catch up with sheep specialist, Damian Costello, to discuss some of the key management tasks for the coming weeks. We start by looking ahead to the breeding season, with Damian highlighting the importance of assessing ewe body condition score (BCS) and taking the necessary steps now to correct any issues ahead of mating. We also discuss ram management, including what to consider when purchasing new rams, and the importance of biosecurity when introducing new stock to the farm. Finally, we discuss why now is a good time to carry out a drench test and check the efficacy of the products being used on farm. For more: https://teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep-management-notes-august-2026/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#326
August 7 · 12 min
Finding the Right Ram for Your Flock
With ram sale season underway, we chat to Sean Godfrey from Sheep Ireland. Sean highlights the impact a ram can have on a flock for a number of seasons; we discuss locating your next ram and the tools on the Sheep Ireland website to make this process easier. Sean also explains some of the key information in the sales catalogues and how you can easily access more via the ram search tool. We finish up discussing this year's upcoming multibreed sale. For more info visit: https://www.sheep.ie For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#325
August 4 · 37 min
Inside an Organic Sheep and Tillage System
We catch up with organic sheep and tillage farmer, Joe Nolan, and Teagasc Organic Advisor, Marianne Mulhall. Joe, who farms near Fenagh, Co. Carlow, outlines his farming system, including the sheep enterprise, tillage rotation and the background to the farm. He discusses the changes made to the flock in recent years, the organic conversion process and how sheep and tillage are integrated on the holding. We also discuss lamb finishing, with Joe explaining the role of different grass and clover leys, forage crops and supplementation within the system. Marianne outlines the current opportunities and challenges facing the organic sheep sector, highlighting the importance of strengthening linkages between organic livestock and tillage farms to improve feed sourcing and the opportunities for lamb finishing. She also discusses the series of upcoming organic farm walks, including one taking place on Joe's farm on Wednesday 12th August. To register for one of the events please click here: https://teagasc.ie/rural-economy/organics/events/#lambfinishing For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#324
July 29 · 10 min
What Happens to Worm Burdens During and After a Dry Spell?
Amanda McEvoy joins us to discuss the impact of recent weather conditions on worm burdens in sheep flocks. Amanda begins by explaining how lambs become infected and how weather influences the development and survival of parasites on pasture. We discuss how the recent dry spell has affected worm burdens and why changing weather conditions, particularly increased moisture, can quickly alter the risk on farms. Amanda also highlights the importance of monitoring worm burdens closely at this stage of the season, especially following this summer's weather patterns. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#323
July 24 · 18 min
Forage Crops: Adding Value to Mixed Farming Systems
In this episode of OviCast, Dr Frank Campion discusses the role of forage crops within an integrated livestock system and the value they can bring to sheep enterprises. Frank outlines the different forage crop options, their expected yields and the classes of stock they are best suited to. He also discusses the impact of sowing date, the importance of estimating crop yield and key grazing management considerations. Finally, Frank explains the levels of lamb performance that can be achieved and highlights how forage crops can improve flock profitability by generating additional income during the winter months. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#322
July 14 · 18 min
Improving Performance on a Mixed Beef and Sheep Farm
Sheep Specialist, Damian Costello, joins Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, to chat with Roscommon farmer and Future Beef Programme participant, Olivia Hynes, ahead of the upcoming open day on her farm. Olivia discusses her mixed suckler and sheep enterprise, explaining how paddock grazing has improved grass utilisation and overall farm performance. She also outlines her use of AI within the suckler herd and why it is well suited to her system. The conversation also explores the sheep enterprise, how she manages the spring workload across both enterprises, and the key changes she has implemented on the farm in recent year. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#321
July 10 · 15 min
Grass Growth Update: Managing Through the Dry Spell
Grass10 Advisor, Nikki Kennedy, joins us for an update on grass growth across the country. Nikki discusses how the recent dry spell has affected grass growth, highlighting the varying impact on farms in different regions. She offers practical advice for farmers where grass supplies are becoming restricted and outlines the key management decisions to consider in the weeks ahead. We also discuss grazing management for the remainder of the summer, the importance of assessing silage stocks, and the potential role of autumn reseeding in improving grass production on some farms. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#320
July 2 · 20 min
July Management Notes
Teagasc Sheep Specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us to discuss the key management tasks for the month ahead. We start by looking at grassland management, including how to maintain sward quality through the remainder of the grazing season and the opportunities that autumn reseeding can offer. Attention then turns to flock management, with Michael outlining best practice around weaning lambs, drying off ewes, and managing ewe body condition to ensure ewes are in the right condition ahead of the next breeding season With lamb performance a key focus at this time of year, we also discuss mineral supplementation, including the role of cobalt, and when supplementation may be required. Finally, we examine lameness, why reducing its incidence should be a priority on sheep farms, and the practical measures that can help improve flock health and productivity. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#319
June 22 · 34 min
Results from the Teagasc labour survey on sheep farms
Teagasc Sheep Specialist, Damian Costello, joins us to discuss the preliminary results of the labour survey. We explore some of the key findings from the latest analysis, including the age profile of farmers, levels of off-farm employment, and how farm tasks are managed throughout the year. Damian discusses the facilities available on farms, the challenges created by farm fragmentation, and how these factors influence farm management and future development. We also look at the level of TAMS uptake, the barriers farmers face when accessing the scheme, and what improvements could encourage greater participation. To finish, Damian shares his thoughts on future trends and what the outlook may be for farm numbers going forward. View Damian’s presentation on the labour survey here: https://teagasc.ie/wp-content/uploads/Damian-Costello.pdf For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#318
June 11 · 6 min
Previewing the 2026 National Sheep Conference
Teagasc's Amanda McEvoy, joins us as we preview the 2026 National Sheep Conference. Amanda outlines the new format for this year's event and discusses the speakers and key topics that will feature in the indoor conference sessions. A first for the National Sheep Conference will be an on-farm evening programme, where attendees will have the opportunity to hear about ongoing sheep research studies being undertaken at Teagasc Athenry. The evening will also include a series of practical workshops, giving participants an insight into the latest research and technologies being developed for the sheep sector. For more information on the 2026 National Sheep Conference, visit: https://teagasc.ie/news--events/news/teagasc-national-sheep-conference-2026/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#317
June 5 · 23 min
June Management Notes
For this week’s OviCast, grass management, weaning decisions, cull ewe selection and shearing are all discussed. Damian Costello and Teagasc Sheep Specialist, Ciaran Lynch, break down the key messages from the June Sheep Advisory Newsletter, discussing how to maintain grass quality, prepare for weaning, assess ewes for culling and get the most from shearing day. This is a practical episode full of seasonal advice for sheep farmers as lambs approach weaning and grass growth peaks. Find out more: https://teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/teagasc-sheep-advisory-newsletter-june/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#316
May 26 · 16 min
How are lambs performing this so far this year?
Dr. Frank Campion joins us as we discuss lamb performance on the BETTER farms this spring. We discuss lamb mortality levels and how they compare with previous years, while also examining strong lamb growth rates seen on farms so far this season. Frank outlines some of the key factors driving performance and finishes with practical advice for the weeks ahead to help maintain progress. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#315
May 12 · 15 min
May Grass Focus
Grass10 advisor, Nikki Kennedy, joins us to take a look at grazing management priorities for the weeks ahead. Nikki discusses current grass growth rates, grazing targets and managing farm covers, along with the options around taking out surplus paddocks for silage. We also cover fodder budgeting and fertiliser and slurry applications as farmers plan ahead for the season. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#314
May 8 · 19 min
May Management Notes
Teagasc Sheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins us as we run through the key management priorities for sheep farmers in May. We cover practical advice on grassland management, maintaining lamb performance, and planning ahead for first-cut silage. There’s also a timely reminder of the National Sheep Welfare Scheme (NSWS) deadline and what’s required to maximise payments. On the flock health side, we focus on seasonal risks including Nematodirus, scald, and blowfly strike, with clear guidance on prevention and treatment. For more information: https://teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/teagasc-sheep-advisory-newsletter-may/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#313
May 1 · 14 min
Don’t Be on the Hind Foot When Tackling Scald
Jake Delaney, Teagasc Walsh Scholar, joins us this week to discuss scald in lambs and why it’s such a common challenge at this stage of the season. Jake explains what causes scald, how it affects animal performance and welfare, and why it should never be ignored. We also explore how scald can act as a gateway for more severe conditions such as footrot and CODD, making early detection and treatment essential. The episode covers practical treatment options and outlines best-practice approaches for managing and preventing foot issues in your flock this season. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#312
April 21 · 17 min
Weed control on pasture and silage ground
In a joint episode with Catherine Egan from the Beef Edge, we’re joined by Chris Maughan from TP Whelehan to explore practical weed control strategies. Chris outlines a wide range of control options for common problem weeds, including docks, thistles, and ragwort. We also discuss clover-safe sprays and how to plan weed control programmes when establishing or maintaining clover and multispecies swards. The conversation covers key technical considerations such as sprayer setup, nozzle selection, and how water quality can influence spray performance. The episode wraps up with best practice advice on managing water quality and the safe disposal of chemical containers. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#311
April 15 · 18 min
Nematodirus Forecast 2026
Dr James O’Shaughnessy from the Department of Agriculture’s Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins us to discuss this year’s Nematodirus forecast. James explains what Nematodirus is, how it impacts young lambs, and the key symptoms to watch out for. We discuss this year’s forecast and what it means for farms across the country this spring. He also outlines treatment strategies and emphasises the importance of planning ahead to manage the challenge effectively. We finish by discussing the potential risk of concurrent infections, particularly Coccidia, and the role of follow-up diagnostics where issues arise. Link to this year’s forecast: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/press-releases/nematodirus-forecast-2026/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#310
April 8 · 21 min
April Management Notes
Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins this week’s OviCast to outline the key priorities for the month ahead. We discuss the challenges around fertiliser use and rising costs, why replacing fertiliser with concentrates can be a false economy, and how simple management changes like grouping ewes and subdividing paddocks can boost grass growth. We also cover key flock health risks, including parasites, lameness and grass tetany, before finishing up with practical tips on preparing for high-quality silage. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast
#309
March 31 · 10 min
Coccidiosis in Lambs
Dr. Orla Keane joins us to discuss coccidiosis in lambs, a common but often underestimated issue affecting flock performance. We cover what causes coccidiosis, its impact on lamb health and growth, and the key symptoms farmers should watch for. With the challenging spring weather conditions, we also look at why the risk of infection may be higher this year and what that means for on-farm management. We finish with a practical discussion on treatment and prevention, including how different coccidiostats, their active ingredients, and dosing strategies work to control the disease. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

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