Dissecting the Effects of Intensive Rotational Grazing on Worm Egg Counts in Sheep on the Cicerone Project

Abstract

Sheep on Farmlet C (Intensive rotational grazing): • Have lower worm egg counts than A and B in all classes of sheep • Have a lower percentage of Barber’s Pole Worm • Are exposed to lower numbers of larvae on pasture but • Have lower resistance to worms We conclude that short graze periods coupled with long rest periods result in lower worm burdens and that this is mediated by reduced larval uptake on farmlet C rather than improved host immunity.