The occurance, distribution and characteristics of sheep camps on the northern tablelands of New South Wales.

Abstract

This paper examines the characteristics of sites where sheep camp or rest and explores the circumstances under which water. shelter, open space, rockiness, shade, elevation, aspect and contiguity were important in determining the location of such sites. From one to six camps were distinguished in all paddocks grazed by either Merino or Dorset Horn sheep. Camps were most conspicuous in lightly stocked native and natural pastures. A hierarchy was presented to show relationships among the various types of camp defined. Contiguous camps were a particular feature of small flocks of Merinos grazing small paddocks. In commercial flocks, Merinos mostly camped at or about the highest reasonably open locations with a north-easterly aspect. Water and shelter do not appear to be important in influencing the location of nocturnal sheep camps on the Northern Tablelands.