How do the dry summer months impact the feeding strategies used by sheep farmers on the island?

The dry summer months significantly influence the feeding strategies employed by sheep farmers on the island. During this period, the natural availability of fresh, green pasture diminishes as grasses and other forage plants wither or become dormant due to the lack of rainfall. Consequently, farmers must adapt their approach to ensure their sheep continue receiving adequate nutrition despite the reduced natural food supply. This often means relying more heavily on stored feed, such as hay and silage, which are harvested and preserved during the more abundant spring and early summer months. These conserved feeds offer a vital source of energy and nutrients when fresh grazing is limited.

In addition to increased use of stored fodder, farmers may also implement supplemental feeding strategies, including the provision of grain or specially formulated pellets designed to maintain the animals' health and condition. Water availability can also become a constraint during dry spells, so efficient hydration management is closely linked with feeding practices. Some farmers rotate sheep more frequently between grazing areas to prevent overgrazing and allow pasture recovery. This can be a delicate balance because over-exerting limited feed resources risks long-term degradation of the pastureland, which would further exacerbate feeding challenges in subsequent seasons. Overall, the dry summer months require careful planning, monitoring, and adjustments from farmers to sustain the health of their flocks and the productivity of their land.