The deadline for the 2012 British Sheep Breed Survey has been extended until 28th February to give sheep producers more time to make sure their flock is counted.

The project, which is funded jointly by EBLEX and HCC (Hybu Cig Cymru/Meat Promotion Wales), is designed to give an accurate picture of how the sheep industry has evolved since the last national survey took place in 2003. The results will give a better understanding of how breeds have changed and highlight the industry’s strengths and weaknesses, helping shape future research and knowledge transfer efforts. At the enterprise level, having improved knowledge of what farmers are doing around the country may inspire change within individual flocks.

EBLEX livestock scientist, Poppy Frater, said, "We’re very grateful to the 12,000 producers who have completed the survey so far. However, we’re keen that as many flocks as possible are represented, so we have decided to extend the deadline to the end of February.

"Ouessant ewes and Beltex x Soay crosses have been among the surprises so far, so the results are guaranteed to make interesting reading."

The survey can be downloaded from www.signetfbc.co.uk or, to order a hard copy, contact Signet Breeding services on 024 7647 8829. The results of the survey will be made available in November this year.