Marking sheep during the breeding season: colours, crayons and raddle blocks
, by Michael van Wassem, 4 min reading time
Breeding season coming up? Learn how to use raddle blocks, marker crayons and colour codes to see which ewes have been mated and when the lambs are due.
In autumn, many sheep keepers ask one question: which ewes has the ram already mated, and when? Without marking, it is guesswork. With a raddle block or harness and a simple colour scheme, you get a clear overview within a few weeks and a rough idea of when the lambs will arrive.
Short answer
You fit the ram with a colour block (raddle) or a harness with a crayon on his chest. When he mates a ewe, a colour mark is left on her back or rump. If you change colour after about two weeks, the colour of the mark shows in which period a ewe was mated. Write down the date and colour in your flock records.
Raddle block or harness: how does it work?
Raddle block
A raddle block is a block of dye fixed to the ram's chest. It is simple and suits a small flock. Make sure the block is firmly attached and check it regularly: an empty or loose block leaves no marks.
Harness with crayon
With a harness, the ram wears a strap rig holding a crayon block. It must fit well and must not rub or pinch. Check it regularly and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Colour scheme: how to read the marks
A ewe that is not pregnant comes back into heat roughly every 17 days on average. Many keepers therefore change colour after about two weeks. An example scheme:
| Period | Colour (example) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1–2 | Yellow | First mating |
| Week 3–4 | Red | Mated in the second round |
| Week 5–6 | Blue | Late mating |
If a ewe carries two colours, she has been mated again. This can mean the first mating did not take. Pregnancy lasts about five months, so the date of the first colour lets you roughly plan when the lambing pen must be ready.
Marker crayons and sprays: what are they for?
A marker crayon or spray is not meant to record matings, but to tell animals apart: for example ewes to be separated, animals already checked, or groups for sorting. Choose a colour that stands out against the fleece.
Practical tips
- Only put the ram with the ewes when he is in good condition, and check him regularly.
- Record every colour change with the date. Without records the scheme is worthless.
- Choose colours that are clearly visible on your sheep's fleece colour.
- Check harness and block every time you go through the flock.
- Read the product information: crayons come in different hardnesses, depending on temperature.
Common mistakes
- A mark is not proof of pregnancy. The mark shows a ewe was mated, not that she is pregnant. For certainty, ask your vet about pregnancy scanning.
- Changing colour too late, so matings get mixed up.
- Not checking the harness, leading to rub marks or a loose block.
- Not keeping notes, so the scheme cannot be read later.
Marking is not identification
Colour marking is an aid for your own records. Ear tags and registration of sheep are regulated by law. Check which rules apply to you with the relevant authority in your country.
Breeding season checklist
- Raddle block or harness chosen and fitted
- Colour scheme with dates decided
- Notebook or app for records ready
- Ram in good condition and checked
- Ewes identifiable or registered according to the rules
- Lambing pen and spring planning in view
Frequently asked questions
When do I change colour?
Many keepers do so after about two weeks, because a ewe's heat cycle lasts about 17 days on average. Your own situation and your vet's or adviser's advice come first.
Which colour should I choose?
One that is clearly visible on your sheep's fleece. More important than the colour itself is using them in a fixed order and writing it down.
Does this tell me for sure that a ewe is pregnant?
No. The mark only shows she was mated. Pregnancy scanning is done by a vet.
Does colour marking replace the ear tag?
No. For ear tags and registration, follow the legal rules that apply to you.
Summary
With a raddle block or harness, a fixed colour scheme and good notes, you keep the breeding season under control. Change colour about every two weeks, check ram and harness regularly, and remember that a mark means mated, not pregnant. Ear tags remain a separate, legal matter.
Sources and further reading: Gezondheidsdienst voor Dieren (GD), Wageningen University & Research and the relevant authorities. For questions about pregnancy and health, consult your vet.
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