Sheep

Domestic sheep (Ovis aries) are quadrupedal, relatively ruminant mammals typically kept as livestock. Roughly, there could be divided into 3 different types: meat, wool, dairy. Sheep and goats are closely related: both are in the subfamily Caprinae. However, they are separate species, so hybrids rarely occur, and are always infertile. Sheep are herbivore. They have a complex digestive system composed of four stomachs, allowing them to break down cellulose from stems, leaves, and seed hulls into nutrition they need. Feed provided to sheep must be specially formulated, as most cattle, poultry and pig feeds contain levels of copper that are lethal to sheep.

Common forms of preventive medication for sheep are vaccinations and treatments for parasites. Both external and internal parasites are the most prevalent malady in sheep, and are either fatal, or reduce the productivity of flocks. Worms are the most common internal parasites. They are ingested during grazing, incubate within the sheep, and are expelled through the digestive system (beginning the cycle again). Thus, the appropriate deworming schedule is needed. Sheep may be moved to a new pasture to avoid ingesting the same parasites. Routinely rotate the pasture is a good way to break the parasite life cycle (3-4 weeks).

Other than parasites and disease, predation is a threat to sheep and the profitability of sheep raising. Livestock guardian dogs, and protective structures such as barns and fencing can be considered ways to prevent predators. Interspecific pasturing, usually with larger livestock such as cattle or horses, may help to deter predators, even if such species do not actively guard sheep. Penning sheep at night and lambing indoors should also be implemented. Overall, sheep are good protein recourse. Sheep need less land size and less input than cattle. With well management, the profit cycle is short in the sheep business.

Resources are available in our FAQ to assist with starting and maintaining your Sheep and Goat farm. You can also learn more about the National Breeding Center’s breeds.

Sheep Farms

Zoom into the map and click the sheep icons to find out more about farms in your area.