Guidelines for collecting samples for worm egg counts

This is an excerpt taken from an article written by David Rendell for a previous SheepNotes.

1. Submit samples only if, when first picked up, they are warm when squeezed; all those that are not should be discarded
2. Collect at least 20 and preferably 30 samples per mob, regardless of mob size
3. Where samples are mixed before submission, collect similar volumes of each sample
4. Ensure that lamb and ewe samples are placed in separate labelled containers because, even if they are running together, they are likely to have quite different WEC results
5. Immediately on collection, either refrigerate samples or place them in an air-tight container
6. Before leaving the paddock, label the sample legibly
7. Submit the samples to a laboratory that participates in regular interlaboratory quality assurance.

Refer to the WormBoss website — this tool provides critical levels for your region, where to get WECs done and other valuable worm control information.