We have finally got round to posting our 2007 fibre samples off to New Zealand for testing. We do this every year to see how our animals’ fibre statistics are changing and which males are producing cria with the lowest micron counts. It is a breeding tool really and gives you an idea of what is going on. Micron counts aren’t that precise, if you split a sample and send off both halves you invariably get diferences in the histogram. It is also a useful way of training yourself in determining the micron by handle alone. We keep one half of the sample here so when the results come back you can handle the sample and make aha noises, so that’s what 18 micron feels like. You may think it strange that we go to New Zealand but it is a good idea to use the same lab year after year and they are cheaper, even with the postage, than the British labs and very efficient. The results will come through on email in a few days.
My brother William is a bit fed up with the weather. All his students have arrived to pick asparagus and there isn’t any as it is too cold. We have a very cold wind today, three layers again!