The NSW Lifetime Wool project has clearly demonstrated that there is a strong relationship between body condition at joining and the subsequent conception rates of Merino ewes. However, the mechanism driving the increase in conception differs between maiden and adult ewes.

Another important finding from these various analyses has been the amount of variability occurring between Merino flocks in the magnitude of the response to ewe condition at joining.

The contents of this Primefact include the following:

• The differing mechanism driving the conception rates of maiden and adult ewes
• Why should I know how responsive my flock is?
• What do I need to measure and record?
• How does the reproduction response calculator work?
• How does my flock compare?