A very interesting article appeared in the June issue of the "Australian Farm Journal" (link) titled Autumn joining means genetically fitter Merinos. (Ignoring the Merino part )the report is from a practicing veterinarian and research scientist Dr Peter Howe. He says that over 20 years of research focused on gene expression, aberrations of gene expression and birth defects he has developed insights into the reasons why phenotypically sound rams at times fail to transmit their genetic traits to the progeny. One of the significant reasons is timing of breeding, the closer we work with the natural cycle of autumn joining ,spring lambing the more likely the ram is to transmit his genetic potential. It reinforces our belief that the closer we work with the natural systems the better the results will be.
White horses, from "Utes in the Paddock" at Burrawang.
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