Changing patterns of Nematodirus battus infection in sheep

Nematodirus battus is a gastrointestinal parasite which has a huge impact in UK sheep flocks due to lamb mortality and reduction in growth. Farmers and vets conventionally focus their efforts on preventing outbreaks of nematodirosis during the spring, but the incidence of autumn infections is increasing and becoming a growing concern. The aim of this article is to describe changes in the behaviour of N. battus and highlight important knowledge gaps with reference to informing effective and sustainable management.