The performance of the Border Leicester in Australia

Aims. We examine the average performance of Border Leicester (BL) flocks that are part of LAMBPLAN, Australia's sheep performance recording and genetic evaluation system. We also summarise outcomes from the New South Wales Department of Primary Industry's research on BL improvement, and discuss the performance required for the BL to continue to be a pivotal part of the Australian prime lamb industry. Key results. Modest gains have been recorded in the BL in growth since 2000 and faecal egg counts have reduced, suggesting improved worm resistance. The net reproductive rate has slightly improved, while inbreeding continues to increase. In work conducted by the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, an improved BL flock, encompassing selection for multiple births and a broadening of the breed's genetic base, had advantages over purebred BLs in many aspects of performance, including a 19.3% advantage in the net reproductive rate. Advantages in fertility were similar to 5%, litter size similar to 7% and lamb rearing ability similar to 5%. BL improved x Merino and (BL improved x BL) x Merino crossbred ewes also had advantages over traditional BL x Merino ewes in their joining performance when joined to Dorset rams. Conclusions. Selection in the BL needs to emphasise traits in a manner consistent with their importance to commercial lamb production. Implications. Embracing this selection and broadening the BL's genetic base will assist the BL to maintain its place in the Australian lamb industry.

Automated summary

The average performance of Border Leicester (BL) flocks in Australia's sheep performance recording system has shown modest gains in growth since 2000, with improved worm resistance and a slightly improved net reproductive rate. Research by the New South Wales Department of Primary Industry revealed that improved BL flocks had advantages over purebred BLs in various aspects of performance. Maintaining BL's position in the Australian lamb industry requires emphasizing traits important to commercial lamb production and broadening the genetic base of the breed.