Lower Hewood Farm

Livestock

Sheep

The current breeding flock of 20 ewes originates from seven Jacob crosses that were living at the farm when it changed hands in 2008. Every year we either hire or buy a tup (ram) for breeding and so far we have used Jacob, Suffolk, Dorset and South Down tups.  The gestation period for sheep is approximately five months. We introduce the tup to the ewes around 5^th November so that lambs are born from 1^st April, coinciding with the flush of spring grass.

The population of sheep at the farm varies from about 50 – 100 over the course of a year and is made up of lambs, hogget, wethers and retired ewes. Shearing takes place in late May or early June.

Pigs

There are usually 3 – 5 breeding sows residing at the farm, including Saddleback crosses and pedigree Berkshires. The Saddlebacks are lop-eared, have a distinctive white band around the middle and can weigh up to 280 kg. The Berkshires, a black, short-legged breed with white socks and prick ears are smaller at about 220 kg. The gestation period for pigs is 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days and each sow will have at least one litter of 6 – 12 piglets a year.

Livestock is reared for meat. Products include whole or sides of lamb or pork, fresh cuts and joints, sausages and burgers. These are available for sale directly from Lower Hewood Farm.