The time before Easter is the peak of the lambing season for Saxony's shepherds. The Easter lambs are currently being fed special grain with protein components, as master shepherd Sieghard Walter from Landwirtschaft GmbH & Co.KG Machern near Bennewitz (Leipzig district) said. This year there have been more lamb births than in previous years.
Prices fall - costs rise
The only thing that worries producers is prices. According to the Saxon Sheep and Goat Breeders' Association, a kilogram of lamb (live) fetches around 4.20 euros. "Last year it was already at five euros. A fall in the price combined with increased costs for producers in all areas is tough," said association spokeswoman Regina Walther. Lambs reach slaughter maturity at around 42 to 45 kilograms. According to her, one kilogram of leg of lamb costs the end consumer around 40 euros.
