Southdown Signet recorded flocks

Why record with Signet

A number of Southdown Breeders use the National Terminal Sire Evaluation (NTSE) scheme run by Signet Breeding Services (part of AHDB). This helps them take a more scientific approach to selecting top performing stock, improving their flocks and the breed. The scheme also allows performance information to be made available to commercial and pedigree flocks.

How does the NTSE recording scheme work

The NTSE recording scheme collects pedigree and performance data (eg parentage, 8 week weights, 18 week weights, eye muscle and fat depth, lambs born etc) and uses this information to calculate an Estimated Breeding Value (EBV) for a range of traits.

This calculation "levels the playing field" by minimising differences in performance due to management and highlighting genetic potential. In 2019* the scheme had a major overhaul: rebasing indexes, introducing a new maternal index and improving the calculations to ensure the Terminal Sire Index (especially important for commercial flocks), is based on a weight adjusted composite score based on 18 week weight, muscle and fat depth. *In 2021 some further refinements were made to the calculations for the Terminal Sire Index placing a bit more emphasis on muscle depth.

To find out more about the NTSE recording scheme visit: signetdata.com

Performance Recorded Southdown Flocks

A list of Southdown flocks that currently record through the scheme can be found here.