Are You Getting The Most From Your Faecal Egg Counts?

Published in the Jameson Journal, July 2026

A review of best practice for sample collection

Faecal Egg Counts (FECs) are one of the simplest and most valuable tools available to help manage worm burdens and make informed treatment decisions throughout the grazing season.
A good sample equals a good result, and small changes in how samples are collected can make a big difference to the accuracy of the information you receive.

To achieve the best results:

Collect fresh dung samples where possible
Aim for 10-15 animals from the same management group to give a representative picture
Collect around a heaped teaspoon (approximately 3g) per animal
Select animals at random rather than just poor doers (unless investigating a specific problem)
Keep samples cool and out of direct sunlight – we will refrigerate them as soon as they arrive
Deliver samples to us as soon as possible – the fresher, the better!

Faecal Egg Counts should not be viewed as a one-off exercise or simply something to do when there is a problem. Used regularly throughout the season, they can help monitor parasite challenges, reduce unnecessary wormer use and support better long-term worm control.

Please note that FEC results are just one part of the overall picture and should always be considered alongside stock performance, age, grazing history and any clinical signs. We use this combination of information to help build a clearer picture and offer the best advice.

Taking a Faecal Egg Count sample – simple steps for accurate results

1. Collect individual samples

Collect fresh dung samples from 10-15 animals in the same group
Pick up as fresh as possible
Randomly select animals

2. Take a representative sub-sample from each animal

Mix each sample well
Take a small, equal amount from each animal and place into a clean bag
Pick it up fresh! Approx one heaped teaspoon (3g)

3. Bring to W.E. Jameson

Drop off your sample at our Masham Agri Store

4. Results within 40 minutes

We’ll test your sample using our Micron machine
You’ll have your results within 40 minutes

A few minutes spent collecting the sample correctly can provide valuable information to support healthier, more productive livestock.