It is essential with an early weaning program. It increases gains, especially for lambs from multiple births. Lambs use supplemental feed more efficiently at this time than after weaning. Lambs can be marketed at a younger age. Early lambs are sold without going on pasture, thus permitting more ewes to be stocked on existing pastures.
Lambs begin to nibble at grain and hay very early, generally by the time they are a week old.
However, only small amounts of supplemental feed are consumed until lambs are about 4 weeks old. Creep feeders should be located in areas where lambs frequently visit. Those for drylot lambs should be placed in convenient, dry, well-bedded, and protected areas. A light over the creep area helps attract lambs. Creep feeders used in pastures should be located near water tanks, resting areas, or salt and supplemental feeders.