Scottish farmers are scratching their heads as to why they have fewer ewes but more rams in their sheep fields. Census figures show farms have 150,000 fewer ewes but 5,000 more rams over the last 10 years.

The June-recorded numbers could reflect a higher number of small ram breeders, a growing trade in breeding rams being sold or increased use of synchronisation and more ram lambs being used.

Either way, no one has been brave enough to assume that the Scottish tups are just not up to the job.