U Of I Extension Hosts Bird Flu Conference Call

Apr 27, 2015

Although the bird flu virus has not yet been reported in Illinois, its presence in several midwestern states is close enough to home to cause concern. University of Illinois Extension will host a one-hour conference call to address questions about avian influenza.

Information will be shared on topics such as, how to identify the virus, how to limit risk to a flock, and what to do if birds are infected. Poultry producers, backyard chicken enthusiasts, and others who are interested in learning more about the virus are invited to join the live conference call:

Thursday, April 30, at 1 p.m. CST.

888-983-3631, passcode 86333472#

Poultry experts on the call will be:

Ken Koelkebeck, Ph.D., University of Illinois

Kyle Cecil, Ed.D., University of Illinois Extension

Andrew Larson, M.S., M.B.A., University of Illinois Extension

Source:illinois.edu

Video: FLEECED! Sheep Shearer Hands Over Clippers!

It's sheep shearing day at Ewetopia Farms! ?? Our Dorset lambs and ewes are getting fleeced — and for the first time, our shearer hands over his clippers to a beginner. We finish shearing the last of our adult ewes and this year’s Dorset ewe lambs.

From moving the sheep between barns, loading them into chutes, and watching the wool come off, this is always one of the most satisfying days on the farm. But this video has a twist — we welcomed a new helper, Gian, who’s not only lending a hand but also learning how to shear! With guidance from our experienced shearer, he got a crash course in sheep shearing and even tried his hand at shearing a couple of lambs himself.

You’ll see firsthand how both teacher and student handled this unique challenge. Shearing is more than just removing wool — it’s about sheep health, comfort, and giving us a closer look at the flock. It’s always amazing to see the transformation from woolly sheep to freshly shorn ewes and lambs.