The Parasight

Worm risk and seasonal pasture strategies - January 2026

Description: this month, Ben breaks down seasonal pasture risk levels based on recent sheep and cattle activity and explains the associated worm risk. He follows this with strategies for making the most effective use of low-risk pasture. Ben then explains how worm larvae can survive a hot, dry summer and outlines practical ways to manage this risk before the rain arrives. He goes on to highlight key points to consider when scanning thin ewes and hoggs. He also covers a few watch-outs for pneumonia in cattle and strategies to help prevent it. Finally, Ben shares important considerations when dealing with moudly bales.

Worms, fluke & housing: what to know - November 2025

Description: this month, Ben explains how the recent change in weather is affecting worm burdens on pasture, including the potential treatment options to use during this period. He then describes when shearlings develop immunity to worms and the various factors this depends on. Ben also discusses a case of fluke in a ewe and the importance of testing rather than routinely treating animals. Finally, he talks about making the transition to housing calves as smooth as possible and highlights the growing issue of wormer resistance in cattle.

Autumn challenges: pneumonia, worms & acorns - October 2025

Description: this month, Ben discusses the rise in cases of pasteurellosis in lambs. He explains the causes of pasteurella infection and the various stress factors that can worsen its effects. He then talks through the correlation between worms and pasteurellosis. Ben also highlights the risk of acorn poisoning for grazing livestock this autumn. Finally, he shares key considerations for managing lambs going away on winter keep and gives a reminder about quarantine drenching all incoming sheep.