Sheep – non-invasive measurement

Taking measurements from sheep.

Approved activitiesCategory
1. Body weight2

2. Body condition

  • visual assessment
  • condition scoring
  • ultrasound


2

2

2

3. Growth2
4. Body proportions2
5. Pulse or bloodflow2
6. Respiration2
7. Skin temperature (non-invasive)2
8. Age by dentition2
9. Scrotum and testicles (palpation)2

In order to weigh sheep they will need to be walked through the race and onto the scales. Routine weighing is generally done to:

  • monitor growth rates
  • match nutrition required with nutrition supplied
  • provide data for analysis and planning.

Measurements can be taken while sheep are standing in a race, or if individual animals have small flight zones and are regularly handled, they may be held in a small pen or yard.

Image: Sheep may be aged by dentition while resting on their rump after being caught and thrown.
Image: Measurements can be taken while sheep are standing in a race.

Category:

  • Teaching and learning

Business Unit:

  • Curriculum
Page details
Last modified date
17/03/2026
Business unit contact email
Executive director
Megan Kelly
Executive director’s business unit
Teaching Learning&Student Wellbeing
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