Lamb meat is called lamb. The meat of a sheep is categorized as either lamb, hogget and mutton. The meat of a sheep in its first year of life is called lamb, the meat of a younger sheep but older than 12 months is called hogget and an older sheep's meat is called mutton.

http://answers.ask.com/food_and_drinks/other/what_is_lamb_meat_called

Q: I know that I should avoid fatty cuts of beef and pork, but what about lamb? Is it okay?— Kristin Strand, Waseca, Minnesota

A: There's no overriding health reason to stay away from lamb. Its nutritional value is influenced by the cut, and the leanest choices include loin, shank, and leg, all of which are often comparable to beef or pork in terms of calories and fat—about 150 to 170 calories per 3-ounce serving, and 2 to 3 grams of saturated fat. However, some cuts of lamb—blade as well as ground lamb—can be 20 to 30 calories per serving higher than their beef counterparts. 

One advantage is that lamb tends to have less marbling than beef, so when you trim the fat around the edges after cooking, the meat ends up much leaner.

Another important factor is how the animal was raised. We all know the expression "You are what you eat," and it is just as true for animals. The majority of cattle and lambs are grain-fed to help fatten them up, but their natural food is grass. More and more farmers are raising their animals on grass in pastures, which can improve the nutritional quality of the meat. One study found cuts from grass-fed animals can have up to a third of the fat of grain-fed. And grass-fed animals tend to have much higher amounts of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids; grain-fed contain so little that we've come to think of fish as the only source. 

Finally, how you prepare meat will influence its healthfulness. Grilling, broiling, and roasting, for example, tend to reduce fat; pan-frying will increase it. 

In general, I recommend making meat a limited part of your diet—try to eat it no more than one to two times a week. A mostly plant-based diet is healthier, as is eating fish. But if you eat meat, be sure to pick the right cut, consider how the animal was raised, and choose a healthy cooking method, and you should be fine.http://www.oprah.com/health/Is-It-Healthy-to-Eat-Lamb

Benefits Of Lamb 

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Lamb is a popular red meat with tremendous health benefits added to its glory. Obtained from a young sheep not more than one year of age, it serves as a great source of necessary nutrients in the body. It easily features in the stew, for its tender and delightful taste, but is quite expensive than its

counterparts - mutton and hogget. With improved breeding practices, butchery and trimming methods, the amount of fat in lamb has gone down at a great level, over the past twenty years, thus making it the perfect choice for health-conscious consumers. Sheep was domesticated in Middle East and Asia over ten thousand years ago, for both wool and meat. It has been even featured as a symbol of sacrifice in many religions, including Judaism and as a traditional dish on Easter in many countries. Lamb is rich in various nutrients, including the proteins, iron, vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, niacin and low in saturated fat, making it quite beneficial for health. With this article, we will help you explore the benefits of lamb.

 

Health Benefits Of Eating Lamb 

Lamb is a good source of high quality protein and supplies the body with 60.3% of the daily requirement for protein.

The meat is a good source of selenium, a mineral whose deficiency can lead to asthma attacks. Lamb is rich in iron, which is an integral component of hemoglobin and aids formation of red

blood cells in the body. The form in which iron is present in lamb is easily absorbed by the body. The meat contains a high amount of zinc, which is required by every living cell in the body for

healthy immune function, cell division and overall growth. It is a good source of vitamin B12, necessary to prevent a dangerous molecule called

homocysteine from harming the body. It also promotes a healthy nervous system, supports the formation of red blood cells and prevents anemia. Moreover, vitamin B12 is found naturally only in animal foods.

The niacin (vitamin B3) present in lamb provides protection against Alzheimer's disease, promotes healthy skin and keeps age-related cognitive decline at bay. Moreover, it retards the risk of developing osteoarthritis by as much as half.

Lamb is good for health conscious people, as it is a source of ‘good fat’ in the body and has less saturated fat than other meat products. 

http://lifestyle.iloveindia.com/lounge/benefits-of-lamb-6426.html

Sheep and goat production

ReproductionThe estrus (heat ) cycle of the ewe averages 17 days while the doe's estrus cycle averages 21 days. Goats are much easier to artificially inseminate (AI) than sheep. There are several reasons why. Sheep have a more complicated cervix which makes passage of an insemination rod very difficult. Sheep show few visible signs of estrus as compared to goats. 

Though it varies by breed, goats tend to be less seasonal and more prolific than sheep. Male goats have an offensive odor during the mating season; rams do not.

NutritionSheep and goats have similar nutrient requirements, though goats have higher maintenance requirements because they are not able to digest the cellulose of plant cell walls as well as sheep. Sheep tend to grow much faster than goats, no matter what the diet is. They convert feed more efficiently. Grain-feeding is less likely to be profitable in goat production.

With the exception of hair sheep, sheep and goats fatten very differently. Goats deposit fat around their internal organs before depositing external fat over their back, ribs, and loin. Sheep deposit external fat before depositing internal fat. Finn sheep and some of the hair breeds deposit fat around their organs similarly to goats.

Sheep have a narrow tolerance for excess copper in their diet, though toxic levels depend upon the level of other minerals in their diets. For this reason, it is generally recommended that sheep not be fed grain and mineral mixes that have been formulated for other livestock, as these feeds likely have copper added to them.

It can also be risky to graze sheep on pastures that have been fertilized with poultry or hog manure. It is not advisable to use copper as a deworming agent. Goats have require more copper in their diet than sheep and are not as sensitive to copper toxicity. When co-mingled, sheep products should be fed. 

DiseasesSheep and goats are generally susceptible to the same diseases, including scrapie, which is transmitted via infected placenta to genetically-susceptible animals. Sheep and goats are infected by the same internal parasites (worms), though coccidia tend to be host-specific. ic. 

Goats tend to be more susceptible to worms than sheep, due to their origins and natural browsing behavior. Goats metabolize anthelmintics quicker and require higher doses of the drugs. The clostridial vaccines also seem to be less effective in goats. Fewer drugs are FDA-approved for use in goats.

OPP (ovine progressive pneumonia) and CAE (caprine arthritic encephalitis), are similar diseases, caused by a slow virus like HIV, that affect sheep and goats, respectively. The primary mode of transmission is through the colostrum. Cross infection is possible.

There is no disease similar to "floppy kid syndrome" in lambs.

Social dominanceDue to their more aggressive behavior, goats will usually dominate sheep, especially if the goats have horns. However, when young bucks and rams are maintained together, rams will dominate because the ram will preemptively strike the buck in the abdomen while the buck is still in the act of rearing up.

http://www.sheep101.info/sheepandgoats2.htm

Separating the sheep from the goats

TaxonomyWhile sheep and goats have many similarities, their taxonomy (scientific clasification) eventually diverges. Each is a distinct species and genus. Sheep (Ovis aries) have 54 chromosomes, while goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) have 60. While sheep and goats will occasionally mate, fertile sheep-goat hybrids are rare. Hybrids made in the laboratory are called chimeras.

Look at their tailsThe easist way to tell the difference between a sheep and goat is to look at their tails. A goat's tail goes up (unless it is sick, frightened, or in distress). Sheep tails hang down and are often docked (shortened) for health and sanitary reasons.

Foraging behaviorThe biggest difference between sheep and goats is their foraging behavior and diet selection. Goats are natural browsers, preferring to eat leaves, twigs, vines, and shrubs. They are very agile and will stand on their hind legs to reach vegetation. Goats like to eat the tops of plants. Sheep are grazers, preferring to eat short, tender grasses and clover. Their dietary preference is forbs and they like to graze close to the soil surface. Goats require a more nutritious diet.

BehaviorSheep and goats tend to behavior differently. Goats are naturally curious and independent, while sheep tend to be more distant and aloof. Sheep have a stronger flocking instinct and become very agitated if they are separated from the rest of the flock. It is easier to keep sheep inside a fence than goats.

Goats will seek shelter more readilty than sheep. Neither likes to get their feet wet and both prefer upland grazing to lowland. In a fight, a ram will back up and charge to butt heads. A goat will rear up on his hind legs and come down forceably to butt heads. This fighting behavior favors the ram.

Physical differencesSheep and goats have many physical differences. Most goats have hair coats that do not require shearing or combing. Most sheep grow wool coats that need to be sheared at least annually. Lamb tails are usually docked (shortened) whereas goat tails are not.

Sheep have an upper lip that is divided by a distinct philtrum (groove). The goat does not.Male goats have glands beneath their tail. Sheep have face or tear glands beneath their eyes and foot or scent glands between the toes. Male goats develop a distinct odor as they grow in sextual maturity. The odor is very strong during the rut (mating season). Sexually mature rams have much less of an odor, if they have an odor at all.

HornsMost goats naturally have horns. Some goats have beards. Many breeds of sheep are naturally hornless (polled). Some sheep have manes. Goat horns are more narrow, upright, and less curved than sheep horns. Sheep tend to curl their horns in loops on the sides of their heads.

http://www.sheep101.info/sheepandgoats.html

Sheep Breeds St - U

St. Croix(Virgin Island White)

The St. Croix is a hair sheep that originated in the Virgin Islands, where it is called the "Virgin Island White." The breed is believed to have descended from the hair sheep of West Africa, but some feel it is a cross of the Wiltshire Horn and the native Criollo. Most of these sheep are white with some solid tan, brown, black or white with brown or black spots. 

Both sexes are polled, and rams have a large throat ruff. Exceptional parasite resistance compared to British sheep breeds has been documented in studies at several universities. The St. Croix is classified as a "rare" breed by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy.

Breed categories: hair (meat)

Distribution: Caribbean, North America

http://www.sheep101.info/breedsT-V.html#StCroix

LambLamb is the meat from young sheep that are less than one year old. It is usually available in five different cuts including the shoulder, rack, shank/breast, loin and leg. Additionally, many stores sell it already ground to be used to make burgers, meat loaf or sauces.

Health Benefits of Lamb

Lamb meat is an excellent source of high quality protein. Lamb meat is an ideal source of iron. An average portion can provide 20 per cent of the

recommended daily intake for men and 12 per cent for women. The iron found in lamb meat and other red meat is in a form that is easily absorbed by the body. The inclusion of iron in the diet is vital in the formation of red blood cells.

Lamb meat provides 45 per cent of the daily requirement of zinc, essential for growth, healing and a healthy immune system. Like iron, the zinc found in lamb meat is more easily absorbed by the body than zinc found in other sources.

Lamb meat is a great source of B vitamins, essential for metabolic reactions in the body. It can provide over 100 per cent of the daily requirement of B12 and is a good source of thiamine.

Lamb meat also contains trace elements such as copper, manganese and selenium. As a result of breeding developments, feeding practices, butchery methods and

trimming, the fat in lamb meat has been greatly reduced over the past 20 years. For example, Lamb Leg Steaks may contain as little as 5.1 per cent fat.

Half the fat in lamb meat is unsaturated, which is good for you. Most of the unsaturated fat is monounsaturated, commonly found in the healthy 'Mediterranean-type diet'

http://www.naturalfoodbenefits.com/display.asp?CAT=3&ID=104

Follow the leader

Wait for meSheep have a strong instinct to follow the sheep in front of them. When one sheep decides to go somewhere, the rest of the flock usually follows, even if it is not a good "decision." For example, sheep will follow each other to slaughter. If one sheep jumps over a cliff, the others are likely to follow. Even from birth, lambs are conditioned to follow the older members of the flock. This instinct is "hard-wired" into sheep. It's not something they "think" about.

LeadersheepThere is a certain strain of sheep in Iceland known as leadersheep. Leadersheep are highly intelligent animals that have the ability and instinct to lead a flock home during difficult conditions. They have an exceptional ability to sense danger. There are many stories in Iceland of leadersheep saving many lives during the fall roundups when blizzards threatened shepherds and flocks alike. 

Learn more about Leadersheep=>

Safety in numbersSheep are gregarious. They will usually stay together in a group while grazing. A sheep will become highly agitated if it is separated from the group. It is the banding together in large groups which protects sheep from predators which will go after the outliers in the flock.

Social animalsSheep are a very social animal. Animal behaviorists note that sheep require the presense of at least 4 or 5 sheep which when grazing together maintain a visual link to each other.

Flocking togetherFlocking instinct is strongest in the fine wool breeds, but exists in all sheep breeds, to some extent. It is the sheep's flocking instinct that allows sheep herders to look after and move large numbers of sheep and lambs.

http://www.sheep101.info/flocking.html

Sheep Facts

Matthew C. Claeys Extension Livestock Specialist

Sharon B. Rogers Extension Livestock Technician

Sheep is a term for selective grazing animals that may be domesticated (tamed) or wild. This material will primarily focus on domesticated sheep. Behaviorally, sheep are gregarious, precocial, defenseless creatures. But what does that mean? Gregarious means that they flock together or like to be with a group. It is rare to see a sheep by itself because of their gregarious nature. Precocial means that they have a high degree of independence at birth. This means that they can stand on their feet shortly after birth. Sheep are defenseless for the most part against predators like coyotes and wild dogs. Sheep are also very selective in their grazing habits. Sheep have a split in their upper lip, with this they are able to pick the preferred leaves off of the plant.

 At one time all sheep were wild. Around 10,000 BC sheep were domesticated by the humans. Most of the wool breeds of sheep were developed from Moulfan sheep. Most of the hair breeds are similar to the Urial sheep of ancient times. Prior to domesticating sheep, the dog and reindeer were domesticated.

As the animals were raised under tamed conditions, they went through several changes. On the outside the sheep began to develop more wool and less hair. The color of the wool and hair changed from brown and shades of brown to whites and blacks. Their ears became more of a lop ear than an erect ear. The horns that the wild sheep possessed were weakened and disappeared from many breeds. On the inside the sheep changed as well. These internal changes happened at both ends. The tails had less vertebrates, or bones than the sheep do now. Today's sheep also have a smaller brain than the sheep 12,000 years ago.

 Sheep were tamed for several uses that still apply today. The sheep were first used for meat, skins, milk and wool. Sheep are still used for these basic purposes plus many more. Sheep by-products are in many items that we use everyday.

 

 

SHEEP FACTSThe information within this fact sheet was developed for you to expand knowledge of sheep and to provide a quick reference to the most frequently asked question about sheep and sheep management.

ANIMAL PROFILE

ClassificationScientific Name

Common Terminology

Kingdom Animalia animal

Phylum Cordata vertebrates

Class Mammalia suckle young

Order Ungulata hoofed mammals

Sub Order Artiodactyla even toed Ungulata

Section Pecora typical ruminants

Family Bovidae hollow horned ruminants

Subfamily Caprinac sheep and goats

Genus Ovis sheep

Species Ovis Aries domesticated sheep

SHEEP TERMS

Ram male of breeding age

Wether castrated male

Ram lamb immature male

Ewe lamb immature female

Lamb newborn

Flock group (3 or more)

Tupping act of breeding

Lambing act of parturition (giving birth)

Birth weight 5 - 8 lb.

Average number born 1.1 - 1.4 lambs/year

Weaning age 2 - 3 months

Pasture carrying capacity 5 - 6 ewes & lambs/acre

TYPES OF SHEEP (body covering)

Fine wool Merino (100%)

Medium wool 1/4, 3/8, & ½ blood

Long wool coarse, strong, luster, 12"/yr (English breeds)

Carpet wool lowest quality

Hair straight, non elastic & glossy

BIOLOGICAL TRAITS

Life span 6 -11 years

Chromosome number 54

Temperature ( F) Respiration rate Pulse rate

MAXIMUM 104.0 20 80

AVERAGE 102.5 16 75

MINIMUM 102.0 10 70

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Ruminant -

multiple-compartment stomach containing microbes (bugs) that are able to digest forages

Daily consumption levels

Food = 2 - 4.5 lb. Water = 0.5 - 1.5 quarts

Daily waste volume Fecal = 2 - 6.5 lb. Urine = 10 - 40 ml per kg body weight

REPRODUCTIVE TRAITS

Ewes

Mature weight 90 - 300 lb.

Breeding season early fall to late winter (some are poly-estrous year around, ex. Dorset)

Estrous cycle 14 - 19 days seasonally poly-estrous

Duration of estrus 24 - 36 hr. (standing heat)

Time of ovulation 24 - 30 hr. from beginning of estrus

Gestation period 145 -155 days

Breeding/year 1 - 2/yr.

Artificial Insemination Yes Cervical or Vaginal Method Intrauterine Method

Ewe lambs

Puberty 5 - 8 months (80 - 100 lb.)

Minimum breeding age 8 - 10 months

Rams

Puberty 6 - 8 months

Mature weight 150 - 450 lb.

Serviceability 1 ram: 30-35 ewes (60 day breeding season)

Ejaculate volume 0.8 - 1.2 ml

Sperm concentration 2000 - 3000 million/ml

Motile sperm 60 - 80%

Semen freezable yes

UNDER THE HIDE (Carcass Information)

HIGH AVERAGE LOW

Age at Slaughter 8 months 6 months 4 months

Live Weight 160 lb. 125 lb. 85 lb.

Dressing Percentage (%) 57 % 52 % 45 %

Fat Thickness .50 in. .25 in. .05 in.

Ribeye Area 3.6 in.2 2.6 in.2 1.5 in.2

Kidney, Pelvic & Heart Fat (%KPH)

6.0 % 3.0 % 1.5 %

Yield Grades 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5, based on the backfat thickness at the 12th rib.

Yield Grade Formula = 0.4 + ( 10 x adjusted back fat thickness, inches) Quality GradesBased on a composite evaluation of conformation, maturity, and quality of the lean flesh.

US Prime US Good

US Choice US Utility

Degrees of Flank Fat Streaking - used to predict marbling, since lamb carcasses are not ribbed to expose ribeye muscle marbling

Devoid Modest

Practically devoid Moderate

Traces Slightly abundant

Slight Moderately abundant

Small Abundant

Maturity (physiological) - Chronological age of the live lamb is determined by assessing the physiological age of the bone and muscle. Maturity grades are A and B

Break joint - young lambs the rigid surface of the joint is quite red, moist, and porous Spool joint - older sheep the joints become less red, drier, and harder

Color of lean red to dark red

Relationship of Maturity & Flank Streaking for Quality Grade in a Lamb Carcass (Boggs & Merkel, Live Animal Carcass Evaluation

and Selection Mannual)

SHEEP TEETH

MOUTH & TEETH

20 Temporary teeth

32 Permanent teeth at maturity

4 pairs of Incisor teeth on lower jaw

Upper incisors missing

Cartilaginous (hard) dental pad on upper jaw

Split upper lip with mobile lips

AGE OF SHEEP (teeth)

Lamb 4 pair of Incisors

1 year middle pair of Incisors

2 years 2nd pair of permanent Incisors

3 years 3rd pair of permanent Incisors

4 years 4th pair of permanent Incisors

5 years all permanent Incisors close together

6 years Incisors begin spreading apart

7-8 years some Incisors broken

10-12 years all Incisors missing

Distributed in furtherance of the Acts of Congress of May 8 and June 30, 1914. Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.

http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/an_sci/extension/animal/4hyouth/sheep/sheepfacts.htm

Lamb feeding industryColorado is the most concentrated lamb feeding area in the United States. Other states that feed a lot of lambs include Texas, California, Iowa, and Oregon. Lamb feeders purchase 60 to 90 pound lambs for finishing in feed lots. Sometimes, lambs are grazed on alfalfa fields. 

The lamb feed lot industry has struggled in recent times due to high feed costs and higher feeder lamb prices, brought about by the increased demand for light weight slaughter lambs by non-traditional markets. 

Small farmsWhile the U.S. sheep industry is still dominated by small numbers of large operations, these operations continue to decline for various reasons. At the same time, small flocks are increasing, especially in the eastern half of the United States, where the majority of lamb is consumed. To be profitable, small flocks must be productive and have access to excellent markets. Sheep are especially popular on small farms where sustainable farming practices are favored, such as pasture-finishing of lambs.

Making money with sheepAs with other agricultural enterprises, sheep farming is not a "get-rich-quick" scheme. The profit margins are narrow. To make money raising sheep, you would need at least several hundred ewes, probably more than 500. While there are some farmers who make a majority of their income from sheep farming, sheep raising is more often a part-time or secondary enterprise of a farm. For some, it is a hobby, retirement activity, or 4-H project. 

Sheep farmers derive their income from the sales of lambs and wool and related products. Though it varies by state and farm, most income comes from the sale of lambs. Dairy sheep

farmers have three sources of income: lambs, wool, and milk (or cheese). Some farmers receive income by leasing their sheep out for grazing. Some sheep are raised for bio-medical purposes (research, blood, etc.).

World sheep numbersAccording to the Food & Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, there are more than one billion sheep world wide. Sheep production is increasing in some countries; declining in others. While China has the most sheep, Australia and New Zealand dominate world markets for lamb and wool.

2010 World Sheep Inventory - Top 10 countries Country Number of head China 134,021,213 India 73,991,000 Australia 68,085,500 Iran 54,000,000 Sudan 52,014,100 Nigeria 35,519,800 New Zealand 32,562,600 United Kingdom 31,000.000 Pakistan 27,800,000 Ethiopia 25,979,900 Total 1,078,948,201Source: FAOSTAT 2010

The United States is not a major sheep-producing country. Lamb and mutton imports account for nearly half of U.S. lamb consumption. 

http://www.sheep101.info/farm.html

Essential Nutrient Requirements of Sheep

Of primary importance in sheep nutrition are water, energy, protein, minerals (with salt, calcium, and phosphorus the most critical components), and vitamins (with vitamin A of primary concern).

Energy. Insufficient energy limits performance of sheep probably more than any other nutritional deficiency. An energy deficiency may result from inadequate amounts of feed or from feeds (generally forages) that do not contain enough protein to sufficiently "unlock" the energy in the feedstuff. The major sources of energy for sheep are hay, pasture, silage, and grains. Milo, barley, corn, oats, and wheat also can be used to raise the energy level of the diet when necessary. Energy deficiencies can cause reduced growth rate, loss of weight, reduced fertility, lowered milk production, and reduced wool quantity and quality.

Protein. In sheep rations, the amount of protein is much more important than quality of protein. However, since the sheep is a ruminant, mature sheep use

effectively the naturally occurring protein and nonprotein nitrogen (urea) in their diets. Common sources of natural protein supplements include cottonseed, soybean, sunflower, linseed, and peanut meals. These oilseed meals contain from 40 to 50 percent protein and are excellent sources of supplemental protein. High-quality legume hays can contain from 12 to 20 percent protein and provide adequate protein for most classes of sheep when fed as a complete ration. Grains, however, are low in protein. They generally contain only 8 to 11 percent protein. Additional protein is necessary in high-grain, lamb-finishing rations for maximum performance.

Nonprotein nitrogen sources should not be fed to young lambs. Young lambs are not functioning ruminants until they are approximately 2 months old, depending upon how soon they have access to grain and forage. However, mature sheep can be fed low levels of nonprotein nitrogen. In general, supplemental nonprotein nitrogen is beneficial only when adequate energy is available. Urea should never make up more than one-third of the ruminally degradable protein in the diet. Additionally, nonprotein nitrogen sources should not be used when lambs are limit-fed. Urea can be toxic if consumed in large amounts over a short time, especially when the diet lacks ruminally available energy. Furthermore, urea is very unpalatable.

When supplementing range sheep in New Mexico, it is important to consider the quantity of available forage in the pasture. If adequate forage is present, but the standing forage is dry and brown (containing < 5 to 6 percent crude protein), it may be necessary to supplement with a high-protein feed (> 35 percent protein). However, if the amount of available forage is insufficient or if the forage is still somewhat green (> 6 percent protein), a lower-protein supplement should be fed to provide additional energy, if needed. Lactating ewes have the highest protein requirement and may require supplemental protein if the range forage contains less than 10 to 12 percent crude protein.

Water. Water is essential for all livestock. Producers must plan for an adequate supply of clean water when designing any type of sheep enterprise. The quality of the water is also important. Sheep will not consume enough water if it is stagnant or of poor quality.

Ordinarily, sheep consume two to three times as much water as dry matter. Abundant, clean, ice-free water is a must in lamb feedlots. Without water, lambs may eat less. Water running through a low trough or water dripping into the trough can help to start the lambs drinking and eating.

Minerals. Approximately 13 different minerals are essential in sheep nutrition. Most of these requirements are met under normal grazing and feeding habits in New Mexico. Those that are most deficient are salt (sodium chloride) and phosphorus.

Salt is essential for many body functions. When sheep are deprived of salt, they generally consume less feed and water, produce less milk, and grow slowly. Animals that are deprived of adequate salt may try to satisfy their needs by chewing wood, licking dirt, or eating toxic amounts of poisonous plants. Inadequate salt intake may cause decreased feed consumption and decreased efficiency of nutrient use. When adding salt to mixed feed, add 0.3 percent to the complete diet or 1 percent to the concentrate portion. In general, supplemental salt should be provided to range ewes at a level of 8 to 11 g of salt per head per day. Provide loose salt rather than salt blocks. Sheep tend to bite instead of lick salt blocks; as a consequence, their teeth may break or wear down prematurely.

Almost all pastures and hays contain an abundance of calcium, but grains are lower in calcium. When lambs are fed on a high-concentrate diet, calcium supplementation may be necessary.

In New Mexico, pastures and hay are generally low in phosphorus. In grains, however, the amount of phosphorous is moderate to high. Since any efficient sheep operation uses a high percentage of roughage or pasture, it is good insurance to assume that the sheep need phosphorus supplementation. Phosphorus deficiency causes slow growth, reduced appetite, unthrifty appearance, listlessness, abnormal bone development, and poor reproductive

performance. It may be beneficial to provide phosphorus supplements year-round for the breeding flock.

When purchasing commercial mineral blocks or loose forms of mineral supplements, look at the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. The narrower this ratio, the better. However, it is important to make sure that the ratio is not inverted (more phosphorous than calcium). If producers prefer to mix a mineral supplement, mix 50 percent salt with 5 percent cottonseed meal and approximately 45 percent bone meal or dicalcium phosphate. Provide this supplement free choice and year-round in a feed box protected from rain and moisture.

Mature sheep require all the fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, and K. They do not require supplemental B vitamins, which are synthesized in the rumen. Normally, the forage and feed supply contain all essential vitamins in adequate amounts, except vitamin A, which is sometimes deficient in dormant forage. However, sheep can store vitamin A for a considerable time. If ewes have been pastured on green forage or have had access to high-quality legume hay, vitamin A is not usually deficient.

In some areas, lambs may develop white muscle disease. This is thought to be caused from a deficiency of vitamin E, selenium, or both. Treatment is most effective with early diagnosis and injection of a vitamin E-selenium material (see page 26).

Creep Feeding. The objective of any farm sheep enterprise should be to develop thrifty, fast-gaining lambs that can be marketed at an early age. Creep feeding may help accomplish this objective.

The most efficient conversion of feed to weight gain occurs during the first 100 to 120 days of a lamb's life. Lambs can easily gain 1 pound per day in their first 70 to 80 days. In well-managed flocks of efficient, fast-gaining breeds, it is common for lambs to reach weights of 110 pounds at 120 days of age.

Young lambs gain 1 pound for every 3 to 4 pounds of feed consumed. By comparison, old-crop feeder lambs require 5 to 6 pounds of feed per pound of gain. There are several potential advantages to using a creep-feeding program:

Increased weight gains, especially for multiple-birth lambs.

Highly efficient feed conversion.

Early marketing.

Early growth and development of the lamb lessens the stress of early weaning.

When practical, start lambs on creep feed as soon after birth as possible. Ordinarily, lambs do not consume much feed until they are 3 to 4 weeks of age. However, the small amount consumed at earlier ages is critical for establishing rumen function in the lamb. Most studies have shown that if the intake of the creep ration does not average 1/2 pound per day from 20 days of age to weaning, then no increase in lamb performance is realized from creep feeding.

Locate the creep feeders where the lambs will use them. In a drylot, place the feeders in a convenient, dry, well-bedded, protected area. In pasture areas, place the feeders relatively close to water tanks, resting areas, or salt and supplement feeders.

To get lambs started on a creep, make sure the starter ration is palatable. Soybean meal in the starter ration increases palatability and provides additional protein. However, soybean meal is expensive. High-quality alfalfa hay, alfalfa pellets, and oat grain also are very palatable.

The creep ration does not have to be complex. It should provide at least 15 to 16 percent natural protein. A simple creep ration containing 80 percent grain sorghum, 10 percent oats, 10 percent oilseed meal, with alfalfa hay free choice should be adequate. Depending on the cost of grain, corn can be substituted for grain sorghum, and wheat or barley can replace half the grain sorghum. In general, young lambs prefer coarse, rolled grains and pelleted feeds. The cost of preparation can make the ration costly, but rate of gain and feed efficiency are increased by pelleting complete feeds, concentrates, and roughages. Pelleting also allows the producer to include different additives, standardize the grain-roughage ratio, and lessen feed waste. Do not feed dusty, moldy, wet feeds. If practical, give any feed left in the creep feeder daily to the ewes, and provide the lambs with fresh feed every day. Add antibiotics to creep rations according to a veterinarian's recommendations to provide some protection against low-level infections.

Individual management systems differ, but often it is feasible to discontinue feeding the ewes grain after the lambs are approximately 6 weeks old and are eating adequate amounts of the creep feed. It is more efficient to feed the grain directly to the lambs because they will convert the feed to gain more efficiently than the ewes can convert feed to milk to lamb gain.

Some producers wean lambs when they are 60 days old. Early weaning of 40 to 50 pound lambs can be successful, provided the lambs are consuming adequate amounts of feed. Research has shown that the ewe's milk production reaches a peak at about four weeks following lambing, and steadily declines to about half as much by the 10th week of lactation. About 74 percent of all milk is produced in the first eight weeks of lactation.

Feeding Lambs. If the farm enterprise is geared to producing marketable lambs in the shortest possible time, creep feeding the lambs early in life is essential to early weaning and to subsequent rapid development in the feedlot. The size of the lamb at weaning is more important than its actual age. Generally, lambs should weigh at least 50 pounds before weaning. Lambs that are on full feed at weaning generally have little difficulty adjusting to a feedlot environment.

After weaning, ewes can be placed on lower quality pasture because their nutritional requirements are low.

One of the biggest advantages of not pasturing the lamb with the ewe is that lambs have less chance of internal parasite infestation. In some situations, it can be more economical to wean lambs and place them on clean, high-quality, fresh pasture, while continuing to provide them supplemental feed. However, this method of finishing lambs does not maximize growth rate under most situations. Ordinarily, pastures are most efficiently used by old-crop lambs. Typically, older lambs can more economically use alfalfa, grain sorghum stubble, wheat pasture, and corn fields. Temporary woven-wire fences or electric fences can be used to effectively control grazing on such fields.

Usually, the lambs must be placed in a feedlot to be adequately finished for market. Intensive management is the key to success in lamb feeding.

In the feedlot, the first few days are the most critical. Generally, lambs have been transported long distances without adequate feed or water, and they often are highly stressed when they arrive at the feedlot.

Range lambs sometimes refuse to drink or eat. For this reason, drylot range-raised lambs for three to four weeks on the ranch so that the lambs know how to eat feed from a bunk and drink from a trough.

Feed newly arrived lambs a high-roughage ration (unless they have previously been adapted to a high-grain diet) and allow them to rest. Lambs should be

placed on feed cautiously and gradually adapted to the desired concentrate level.

As soon as the lambs are over the stress of relocation, treat them for internal and external parasites. Also, vaccinate them for enterotoxemia type D, and sore mouth.

Adequate feeding pens should be available so that the lambs can be sorted by size and fed accordingly. Immediately isolate weak or sick lambs. Size and age of lambs influence the ration composition. Heavy lambs must be finished more rapidly, so they need a ration with a higher level of grains for energy. Lighter lambs can be fed rations containing more roughage. Generally, lambs are started on rations containing 60 to 70 percent roughage. For general lamb feeding, where both legume hay and feed-grains are readily available, a ration of 50 to 60 percent grain and 40 to 50 percent hay can produce very economical gains while minimizing the occurrence of digestive disturbances. Growth stimulants such as Ralgro® also can be beneficial in improving lamb performance in the feedlot. Ralgro® has been shown to stimulate growth rate and to improve feed efficiency.

Lasalocid (Bovatec) also can be incorporated into feedlot diets. Lasalocid will help prevent coccidiosis while promoting growth and improving feed efficiency.

http://aces.nmsu.edu/sheep/sheep_nutrition/essential_nutrition.html

Mary had a little lamb . . . or two

Spring lambingMother Nature meant for sheep to mate in the fall so that lambs would be born in the spring when the weather is mild and the grass is plentiful. This scenario offers the best chance for lambs to survive and thrive. Of course, it also creates a food supply for young predators that are born in the spring.

For this reasons, ewes are considered "short-day "breeders. When day length becomes shorter (in the fall), this triggers the ewe's brain to release hormones that jump start her reproductive system. The further away from the equator the sheep breed originated, the more likely it is to exhibit these seasonal breeding patterns. 

Conversely, sheep breeds developed in the tropics or nearer to the equator are less likely to display seasonal breeding patterns. Breeds in the U.S. that have less seasonal breeding patterns include the Dorset, Rambouillet, Polypay, Karakul, Merino, Finn, and hair sheep.

Ewes are "seasonally, polyestrus" because their reproductive cycle is controlled by the photoperiod (season) and they come into heat (estrus) every ~17 days (until they become pregnant), but only during their fertile period. Photoperiod is the relationship between light and dark in a 24-hour period. It is possible to manipulate the photo period and "fool" ewes into

thinking it's fall.

During their fertile period, ewes will come into estrus (heat) every approximately 17 days until they are bred or their fertile period is over. Only during estrus will a ewe allow a ram to mate her. The duration of estrus is 24 to 36 hours. A ewe in heat will seek out the male. She may sniff, lick, or nuzzle him. She may fan her tail. The classic behavior response of the ram when he detects a ewe in heat is to lift his nose in the air and curl his upper lip. This is called the Flehmen response. 

First-time momsThough it depends upon breed, nutrition, and management, ewes can become mothers by the time they reach their first birthday. This is okay if the ewe lamb has achieved approximately two-thirds of her mature size (weight) before being bred. Thus, for some producers, it is commonplace to breed well-grown ewe lambs when they are 7 to 9 months of age. Other producers wait until their ewes are 18 months old before breeding them to lamb as 2 year olds. Different breeds of sheep reach puberty (sexually maturity) at different ages. 

RamsA healthy, mature ram can probably mate 100 (or more) ewes during a breeding season, though a ratio of 1 mature ram to 30 to 50 ewes is more common to make sure lambing is not too spread out. Six to 7 month old ram lambs that have achieved approximately 50 percent of their mature size can be used for breeding. Ram lambs are usually put in with fewer ewes, 15 to 25. It's best not to mix young rams with mature rams. Some rams may show a preference for ewes of their own breed or kind.

Artificial inseminationArtificial insemination (AI) is much more difficult in sheep than other livestock for several reasons. The ewe has a more complicated cervix and it is difficult to pass a standard insemination rod through her many cervical rings. Ewes show fewer visible signs of estrus, making heat detection more difficult. A teaser ram is often used to detect heat. However, good conception rates are possible when ewes are inseminated with fresh semen deep into the vagina. Good results can also be achieved if frozen semen is injected into the uterine horns via a surgical procedure called laparascopy. Trans-cervical AI requires special equipment and is still being perfected for sheep.

GestationA ewe is pregnant for 142 to 152 days, approximately five months or slighter shorter. Pregnancy is also called gestation. Since ewes gestate for only five months, it is possible for them to lamb more often than once per year. While annual lambing is most common, lambing intervals of 8 months are realistic, especially in the tropics and with breeds that are less seasonal in their breeding habits. 

Extra foodDuring her last month of pregnancy, a ewe needs extra nutrition because her lambs are growing rapidly inside of her and her mammary (udder) tissue is developing. Approximately 70 percent of fetal growth occurs during the last month of pregnancy. The growth of the fetuses also reduces the ewe's rumen capacity, making her require a more-nutrient dense diet, especially if she is carrying multiple fetuses.

If a ewe doesn't get enough feed during late pregnancy, she may get sick because her unborn lambs are taking most of her nutrients. Thin and fat ewes and ewes carrying multiple fetuses are most prone to pregnancy toxemia (ketosis). Thus, it is common to feed some grain during late gestation. On the other hand, if a ewe eats too much during late pregnancy, she may have trouble delivering her lambs because they may get too big to fit through her pelvic cavity. Fat ewes are also more prone to having problems at lambing time.

VaccinationsIt is recommended that ewes be vaccinated during late pregnancy for the clostridial diseases that most commonly affect sheep and lambs: Clostridium perfringens type C & D (overeating

disease) and tetanus. Clostridial diseases are caused by gram positive bacteria that are commonly present in the environment.

By vaccinating the pregnant ewe, the lambs will acquire passive immunity when they drink the colostrum, the first milk produced by the ewe after lambing. In fact, a pre-lambing vaccination is the only way to protect lambs against type C and provide protection for early docking and castration, though anti-toxins can be administered to provide immediate, short-term immunity.

Periparturient egg rise A ewe's natural-acquired immunity to internal parasites (worms) is weakened around the time of lambing. Scientisits call this phenomenon the "periparturient rise" in worm eggs. This periparturient egg rise often occurs at the same time hypobiotic (inactive) worm larvae are resuming their life cycles in the spring. Thus, it is a common practice to deworm ewes during their last month of pregnancy. A dewormer that is effective against hypobiotic larvae should be used.

Due to the widespread emergence of drug-resistant worms, another strategy is to increase the protein content of the late-gestation ration, as the primary parasite that affects sheep is a blood sucking worm (barber pole) that causes blood and protein loss. Higher protein rations have been shown to reduce egg counts in periparturient ewes. 

LambingEwes usually give birth to 1 to 3 lambs at each birthing event. Birthing is called lambing. The technical term for all species is parturition. Twin births (two babies) is most common in well-managed flocks and with many breeds of sheep. First-time moms, especially yearlings, are more likely to have single births, though twins are not uncommon in some breeds. Ewes produce their largest litters of lambs when they are between the ages of 3 and 6.

There are some breeds of sheep that average more than two lambs per litter. In the U.S., the most prolific sheep breeds are Finnsheep and Romanov. The hair sheep breeds (Katahdin, St. Croix, and Barbado) also tend to be quite prolific, averaging more than two lambs per lambing: .

The more lambs a ewe has the more feed she needs to produce milk for them. Oftentimes, extra lambs need to be cross-fostered onto other ewes or artificially reared. Proflic breeds are not recommended for novice shepherds or in situations where nutrition or management are limiting factors. 

Because some sheep are raised in more difficult environments, sometimes it's more desirable for a ewe to have just one lamb. This is because there may not be enough food for the ewe to support the growth of two lambs. If the flock has to travel far for food and water, it's usually better to have one strong lamb than two or three smaller lambs that may struggle to keep up. Smaller, weaker lambs that lag behind the flock are more likely to be killed by predators.

Birth weightsThe weight of newborn lambs varies by breed, sex of lamb, litter number, and ewe nutrition. The lambs from medium to small breeds are similar in size to human babies, usually between 5 and 12 pounds, with an average of 8 to 10 pounds. When birth weights get too large (relative to the size of the breed or cross), difficult births can be encountered. Medium-size babies (for the breed or cross) tend to have the highest survival rate. 

http://www.sheep101.info/lambing.html

Basic information about sheep

Taxonomy. Taxonomy is the classification of organisms into groups based on similarities of origin, structure, etc. Sheep are closely-related to other farm livestock, especially goats. 

Taxonomy of sheep

 Kingdom  Animalia  Animal

 Phylum  Chordata Vertabrae (has spinal cord)

 Sub-phylum  Vertibrata

 Class  Mammalia  Mammal (nurses young)

 Order  Ungulata  Hoofed animal

 Sub-order  Artiodactyla  Even toed

 Family  Bovidae  Hollow horns

 Sub-family  Caprinae  Sheep and goats

 Genus  Ovis  Sheep

 Species  aries  Domestic sheep

Early domesticationDomestication is when an organism is trained or adapted to live with people. Domestication often changes the appearance and behavior of the organism. While dogs were the first animal to be domesticated, sheep and goats are tied for second. It is not known which one was domesticated first.

Life expectancyLife expectancy is how long an organism is expected to live. Typically, the life expectancy of an animal increases with size. For example, cows usually live longer than sheep. The life expectancy of sheep is similar to large breeds of dogs, about 10 to 12 years. Some breeds are known for being longer-lived, e.g. Merino. According to the Guiness Book of World Records, the oldest sheep lived to be 23. She was a Merino.

However, the length of a sheep's productive lifetime tends to be much less. This is because a ewe's productivity is usually highest between 3 and 6 years of age and usually begins to decline after the age of 7. As a result, most ewes are removed from a flock before they would reach their natural life expectancy. It is also necessary to get rid of older ewes in order to make room for younger ones. The younger animals are usually genetically superior to the older ones.

In harsh environments (e.g. where forage is sparse), ewes are usually culled at a younger age because once their teeth start to wear and break down, it becomes more difficult for them to maintain their body condition and consume enough forage to feed their babies. It is possible for a ewe to be productive past 10 years of age, if she is well-fed and managed and stays healthy and sound.

Aging sheepThe approximate age of a sheep can be determined by examining their upper incisor teeth. At birth, lambs have eight baby (or milk) teeth or temporary incisors arranged on their lower jaw. They don't have any teeth on their top jaw, only a dental pad. 

At approximately one year of age, the central pair of baby teeth is replaced by a pair of permanent incisors. At age 2, the second pair is replaced by permanent incisors. At 3 and 4 years, the third and fourth pairs of baby teeth are replaced. 

At approximately four years of age, a sheep has a full mouth of teeth. As it ages past four, the incisor teeth will start to spread, wear, and eventually break. When a ewe has lost some of her teeth, she's called a "broken mouth" ewe. When she's lost all her teeth, she's called a "gummer."

A sheep with no incisor teeth can still survive because it uses mostly its molars for chewing feed. However, it will have a harder time grazing, especially short vegetation.

Cast sheepA sheep that has rolled over onto its back is called a "cast" sheep. It may not be able to get up without assistance. This happens most commonly with short, stocky sheep with full fleeces on flat terrain. Heavily pregnant ewes are most prone. Cast sheep can become distressed and die within a short period of time if they are not rolled back into a normal position. When back on their feet, they may need supported for a few minutes to ensure they are steady.

Vital signsVital signs are measures of various physiological statistics. A sheep's vital signs can help determine if it is sick or in distress.

 Sign Range

 Body temperature 102-103°F

 Heart rate 60-90 beats/minute

 Respiration 12-20 breaths/minute

http://www.sheep101.info/sheepbasics.html

Marketing options

Lamb marketing options fit into two broad categories: commodity and direct (to the consumer).

Commodity marketingRegardless of geographic location, the vast majority of lambs are sold into the commodity market. This would include selling lambs at a public livestock auction; to an order buyer, broker, or dealer; at a buying station; to a feed lot; through a co-op or marketing pool; or to an abattoir. In the commodity market, you are selling a bulk, generic product. Identity is generally lost in the marketing process. 

Commodity marketing favors large commercial and low-cost producers and those in close proximity to terminal markets. A terminal market is one in which lambs are bought for immediate slaughter. At many other sale barns, lambs are bought for resale at terminal markets. 

Public livestock auctions 

Though marketing practices vary by geographic region and size of operation, the most common method to sell lambs is to take them to a public livestock auction (also called auction barn, sale barn, or stockyard). Some sale barns organize special sales prior to the major Christian and Muslim holidays. Special graded sales are usually a better marketing option for quality lambs than weekly sales. Some sales will grade the lambs and co-mingle them into larger lots. Other sales will offer each owner's lambs separately.

There are numerous advantages to selling lambs at an sale barn. It is easy. It is convenient. It is always available. There are usually sales every week. Payment is guaranteed and prompt. There are also several disadvantages. Price is not known ahead of time and can fluctuate widely from week-to-week, as local supply and demand vacillate. There are fees to pay: sales commission, yardage, and insurance. The prices received at local (low volume) sale barns may be significantly less than the

prices paid at regional or terminal (high volume) markets. Lambs marketed at sale barns may undergo significant stress.

Public livestock auctions perform several important functions in the lamb industry. They are a place of price discovery. Price discovery is the process of determining price in the marketplace by the interactions of buyers and sellers. It is where supply meets demand. Very often the prices received at auction barns are used to negotiate private treaty sales of lambs. Sale barns give small producers more clout in the market place, as larger groups of lambs are almost always more appealing to buyers.

Dealers, brokers, and order buyersThere are several advantages to selling lambs directly to a livestock dealer, broker, or order. Selling to a middleman saves the costs associated with selling lambs at an auction barn. Price is negotiated ahead of time. The lambs may be picked up directly from the farm or it may be necessary to transport the lambs to a buying station. When selling lambs in this manner, it is important to know what lambs are worth to make sure a fair price is being paid. The buyer should be licensed and bonded. A cash transaction is recommended.

Marketing alliances and co-opsGroups of producers sometimes work together to form marketing alliances or co-ops. Usually, a co-op contracts slaughter and sells whole carcass or cuts to grocery chains or other retail outlets. The co-op establishes standards (weight, grade,etc.) for the type of lambs they will purchase.

Two examples of marketing alliances are Mountain States Lamb and Dakota Lamb. Mountain States Lamb is a cooperative of 127 ranchers in 10 states. They've marketed 1.5 million lambs since their inception in 2003. Dakota Lamb has 184 members from four states.

AbattoirAbattoir is the French word for a slaughterhouse or meat processor. Many producers, large and small, market their lambs directly to a processor. The lambs may be purchased live or on a carcass basis. The price may be a spot cash price, a forward price, or a formula price. 

Value-based marketing is possible when lambs are marketed directly to the processor. Prices are based on the individual value of each lamb (carcass). Grid pricing offers a base price, with a matrix of premiums and discounts, usually based on carcass weight, yield, and quality grade. "Hitting the grid" can add value to the lamb, while "missing the grid" can reduce the value of the lamb. A pricing grid can be developed for any carcass characteristic with an economic value.

Direct marketing

Direct marketing is when lambs are sold directly to the consumer. Direct marketing takes many forms: freezer lambs; selling lambs at farmers' markets; selling meat via the internet; including lamb in a (community-supported agriculture) subscription; on-farm sales of live animals or meat; and selling wholesale or retail cuts to restaurants or retail outlets. Direct marketing is also called niche and value-added marketing. The volume of product sold is usually much less when lambs are marketed directly to the consumer versus selling commodity lambs. 

In direct marketing, a larger share of the consumer's dollar is retained by the producer. Thus, the income potential for direct marketing is substantially higher than for commodity marketing, though costs (processing, transportation, etc.) are also much higher. The labor associated with selling one lamb can be especially high. 

Direct marketing favors small-scale producers and those in close proximity to population centers. It favors producers with "people skills." Marketing tends to require a different skill set than producing. Successful direct marketers are passionate about what they are selling. Many experts feel that direct marketing is the only way for small-scale producers to compete with larger producers, due to the economies of scale.

Selling carcasses

Selling whole or half lambs for consumers to put into their freezers is the most common form of direct marketing lamb. "Freezer" lambs are usually sold live. If the lamb is processed in a federally-inspected plant, the lamb can be sold by hanging weight. The producer usually transports the lambs to the processor. The customer provides cutting instructions and pays for processing. The meat is stamped "not-for-resale." Processing charges vary considerably by plant and location. Federally-inspected plants usually charge more than custom-exempt plants. 

Customers for the freezer trade vary in the type of lamb they prefer to buy: size, age, diet, etc. Grain-fed lamb is considered to be a premium product, because it produces milder-flavored lamb. At the same time, there is a growing market for grass-fed and naturally-raised lamb. Grass-fed lamb tends to be more healthful. Success in the freezer trade start with having a good processor. Good customer service will lead to repeat customers and referrals. 

Meat (retail, case-ready cuts)More and more producers are selling lamb (and mutton) at farmers' markets. Buying "local" is growing in popularity. In order to sell lamb at a farmers' market, the lamb must be processed in a USDA-inspected plant. The meat must be labeled. Requirements for selling meat at a farmers' market will vary by state and market. Product liability insurance may be required. There may be licensing requirements.

There many ways to cut up a lamb carcass and customers will vary in their preferences. The five primal cuts of a lamb carcass are the leg, loin, rack, shoulders, and foreshank and breast. Different retails cuts may be obtained from the primal cuts. Sometimes, whole lambs are purchased for roasting. Sometimes, the entire lamb is cut into chunks.

Approximate yield (lbs) of various cuts from lamb carcasses

Carcass weight 41-55 55-65

   Foresaddle 21-25 25-35

   Hindsaddle 20-25 25-30

   Leg 6-9 9-13

   Loin 6-8 8-11

   Sirloin < 2 2-3

   Tenderloin < 0.5 0.5-1.5

   Rack 4-5 5-7

   Shoulder 14-19 19-23

   Flank < 0.5 1-1.5

   Breast < 2 2-3

   Foreshank 0.5-1 1-1.5

Source: Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications (IMPS, 1996)

http://www.sheep101.info/201/lambmarketing.html

Enterprise budgeting

One of the best ways to estimate the profitability of an agricultural enterprise is to do an enterprise budget. An enterprise budget is a simple listing of income and expenses, based on a set of assumptions. Enterprise budgets estimate profitability for agricultural enterprises. They are useful for performing breakeven analyses and can be used to select the mix of enterprises on a farm. 

Below is a sample budget for a 50-ewe sheep enterprise. For an enterprise budget to be useful, it is important to use your own figures. This budget is meant only to serve as an example.

FLOCK COMPOSITION PRODUCTION ASSUMPTIONS

Number of ewes 50 Pecent lamb crop raised 180%

Number of rams 2 Ewe replacement rate 10%

Adult death loss 5% Ram replacement rate 33%

 

INCOME No. hd lbs/hd Price Unit Total Per ewe

Market lambs 85 95 $1.00 lb $8,075 $161.50

Cull ewes 2.5 150 $0.50 lb $188 $3.75

Cull rams .66 200 $0.50 lb. $66 $1.32

Shorn wool 52 7.0 $0.40 lb. $146 $2.91

Wool LDP 52 7.0 $0.16 lb. $53 $1.06

Unshorn lamb pymt 85 6.865 $0.16 lb. $93 $1.87

Government payments    

Other income    

TOTAL INCOME $8,329 $166.57

 

OPERATING COSTS No. hd Amt/hd Unit Cost Total Per ewe

Feed costs

Hay 52 0.3 ton $90 $1,404 $28.08

Grain 52 165 lb $0.10 $858 $17.16

Salt and minerals 52 12.0 lb. $0.48 $300 $5.99

Feed for lambs 90 120.0 lb. $0.10 $1,080 $21.60

Pasture maintenance 142 0.20 acre $30.00 $180 $3.60

Health program

Deworming (adults) 52 1 dose $1.00 $52 $1.04

Deworming (lambs) 90 2 dose $0.75 $135 $2.70

Vaccinations (adults) 52 1 dose $0.50 $26 $0.52

Vaccinations (lambs) 90 2 dose $0.50 $52 $1.04

Other vet costs 52 . head $4.00 $208 $4.16

Other costs

Shearing 52 . head $4.00 $208 $4.16

Ram replacement 0.66 . head $400 $264 $5.28

Bedding 52 . head $3.00 $156 $3.12

Supplies 52 . head $3.00 $156 $3.12

Hauling 88 . head $5.00 $441 $6.00

Livestock protection   $300 $6.00

Clean barn $300 $6.00

Other expense      

Interest 6% for 6 months $184 $3.67

TOTAL COSTS $6,303 $126.06

 

Return to land, labor, and capital $2,026 $40.51

 

Cost per lb. of liveweight $0.75

Cost per lb. of carcass weight Yield 50% $1.50

You can download this budget as an Excel file and use your own figures and assumptions to estimate the profitability of your sheep enterprise.

Budget explantation

Before you construct a budget for an agricultural enterprise, you first have to make some assumptions. In this sample budget, flock composition is the number of breeding ewes and rams in the flock. Lambing percentage is the percentage (or number ) of lambs that you will market for each ewe in the flock. This includes ewes that fail to raise a lamb. It also takes into account any death losses that occur before marketing. 

Lambing percentage is one of the most important assumptions in a sheep production budget. The figure you use will have a very large effect on profitability. You should experiment with different levels of productivity.

Ewe replacement rate is the percentage of ewes that are replaced in the flock each year. You need to keep enough ewe lambs to replace the ewes that die, as well as the ones that you cull. A replacement rate of 15 to 20 percent is common. You can make more rapid genetic improvement if you replace ewes at a more rapid rate. Seedstock producers tend to replace females at a faster rate than commercial breeders.

In some operations, it is common to purchase replacement females. In this case, the ewe replacement rate would be zero and the cost of replacement ewes would be a fixed cost (depreciation) of doing business. Fixed costs are not included in this simple budget.

The ram replacement rate is an indication of how many years a ram is kept. A 33 percent replacement rate means that you keep a ram for three years before getting rid of him. In this budget, it is assumed that breeding rams are purchased.

Income

The income from a sheep enterprise includes the proceeds from the sale of market lambs, breeding stock, cull ewes and rams, and wool. It may also include government payments. 

Lamb prices will vary by year, season, type and quality of lamb, and marketing method. Lighter weight lambs usually bring more per pound than heavy weight lambs. Since marketing costs aren't included anywhere else in the budget, market price should include any selling fees, as well as the lamb check-off.

Prices for cull ewes and cull rams will also vary. Extremely thin or fat sheep are usually discounted n the marketplace. If your "culls" are still healthy, productive animals, you can try selling them for breeding to increase their value. Another alternative is to have cull animals slaughtered and have their

meat made into sausage or snack sticks. The strong flavor of mutton will be masked by the seasoning.

Wool prices vary by year, marketing method, and type of wool. In the U.S., the support price for wool is 40 cents per pound for ungraded wool and $1 per pound for graded wool. Fine wool that is skirted will bring the most money in the commodity market. Producers who direct market their wool to hand spinners and weavers may receive substantially more for their fleeces. 

Depending upon wool prices, wool income can be increased by participating in the government wool LDP program, which provides payments for both shorn wool and unshorn lamb wool. The wool income items will be zero for hair sheep producers or wool producers who throw their wool away or give it to the shearer.

Expenses

Many producers believe that the only way to make money raising sheep or to make more money is to increase income. Lowering production costs is probably a more realistic way to increase the net income from a sheep enterprise. This can be done by lowering expenses and/or increasing productivity.

Feed costsFeed costs are usually the largest expense associated with raising sheep and similar livestock. They include hay, grain, mineral supplements, lamb feed, and pasture maintenance. It usually takes from 1/4 to 1/3 of a ton (4 to 5 lbs. of hay for 120 to 150 days) to feed a ewe over the winter. There can be a lot of waste associated with feeding hay, especially round bales, so these losses should be factored into the budget.

The figure for hay will be lower if the winter feeder period is shortened due to a longer growing season or an extended grazing season. The figure will be higher when the winter feeding period is longer due to a shortage of pasture or a shorter growing season. The price of hay will vary significantly by geographic location, year, type of hay, and size of bales.

The amount of grain fed depends upon the production system. This budget assumes that 15 lbs. of grain is fed to a ewe during the last month of gestation (an average of 0.5 lbs. per day). It assumes that grain is fed for the first 60 days of lactation at a rate of one pound per offspring. The cost of grain fed to ewes can vary signficantly. Grain prices have increased signficantly in recent years.

A complete sheep feed bought at a feed store can be very expensive. Grain costs can be reduced significantly if farm grains are used and simple rations are mixed on the farm. If a high quality legume hay (e.g. alfalfa) is fed during lacation, whole corn or barley can be fed, as opposed to a more expensive mixed ration.

It is difficult to estimate salt and mineral consumption by sheep. Estimates are given on the label, but sometimes sheep will eat more or less. Mineral prices have increased substantially in recent years.

Some lambs will never see a bite of grain, whereas others will be creep fed and finished on concentrate rations. This budget assumes that lambs are creep fed, then pastured and fed a pound of grain per day for 60 days post-weaning.

Pasture maintenance costs would include establishment, renovation,and maintenance of pasture. 

Health The next section of the budget is for health costs. Detail is provided on deworming and vaccinations. It

is assumed that each ewe is once per year and that each lamb is dewormed an average of two times. Lambs are vaccinated twice for CD-T. Ewes and rams are boostered annually. The figure for additional vet costs would include medicines. The figure does not include veterinary services. It is assumed that the shepherd his or her own vet work.

Other costsIf traditional wooled sheep are being raised, there may be an annual cost of shearing. This budget item will be zero if hair sheep are raised or the shepherd does his or her own shearing.

It will be necessary to replace rams every few years. If a ram is saved from the flock, there will be no additional cost. Usually, rams are bought from outside flocks to keep minimize inbreeding and introduce new genetics. It is assumed that new rams will be purchased for $400. It's possible to pay less or more for rams. 

The rule of thumb is that a "good" ram is worth the value of five market lambs. If replacement ewes are purchased instead of raised, their cost will need to be added to the budget. The cost of a replacement ewe varies by age, breed, and registration.

Unless the sheep are always kept outside, most operations will incur a cost for bedding. It is difficult to estimate this cost, as bedding costs vary and different types of bedding can be used: straw, hay, shavings, newspaper, etc. The best figure is one obtained from actual costs in previous years of production.

There is usually a cost associated with hauling animals to market. This cost should be included in the enterprise budget. If lambs are picked up at the farm, there will be no cost for this item.

If the farm employs guardian dogs (or other livestock guardians), the cost of maintaining these animals should be included in the budget. This figure would include the cost of food and health care (shots, heartworm medicine, etc.)

The sheep enterprise may occur various other expenses that should be included in the budget. Paying someone to clean your barn would be an example of another operating cost.

The last item in the budget is interest on operating money. It is the cost of using money. If you didn't raise sheep and invested the money instead, what could you earn? Sheep raising should be competitive with alternative uses of the money. The money is charged for six months at a current interest rate.

Fixed costs

Fixed costs include depreciation, taxes, interest on investment, land charges, and insurance. Sometimes a management fee is included as a fixed cost. These costs are considered to be “fixed” because they generally remain the same within a production period and do not vary with the level of output. Indirect, noncash, and overhead costs are other terms used to describe fixed costs. When there are more than one enterprise on the farm, it is more difficult to assign fixed costs to specific enterprises.

The bottom lineIn this budget, the difference between income and expenses represents the return to land, labor, and capital. Ideally, you want to earn a profit above total costs every year. 

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The Gross National Product and the Gross Domestic Product are two key indicators used to assess the health of a countries economy. Gross National Product refers to the economic output of a countries enterprises, where as the Gross Domestic Product refers to the output within a counties borders. The numbers associated with these two do not have to be the same, since they measure things a little differently. The United States started using the GDP in 1991, when many other countries were already using it. These numbers are commonly reported on a Per Capita basis, along with income, consumption rates, and other economic data.

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Housing for sheep

Housing needs for sheep vary by climate, season(s) of lambing, and management preferences of the shepherd. If lambing will occur during periods of inclement weather, more elaborate housing is usually required. If lambing will occur on pasture during periods of mild weather, simple shelters may be all that is needed. 

Lambing percentages are usually higher when shed lambing is practiced. Housed sheep have lower nutritional requirements, whereas sheep kept outside have fewer respiratory problems.

In addition, most operations need facilities where they can store feed, bedding, and equipment. Hay stored in a barn or shed will maintain its quality better than hay that is stored outside, even if the hay is covered. Equipment will last longer if it is housed under a roof.

Barns (and similar structures) are often built for the comfort and convenience of the shepherd. During cold or inclement weather, it is easier and more enjoyable to care for sheep that are housed. However, housing costs can add significantly to the investment costs of a sheep enterprise.

Options

There are many different types of housing that can be used for sheep. Traditional barns, pole buildings, and metal buildings are usually the most expensive, but they provide the best protection for the shepherd, sheep, feed, and equipment. 

A lower-cost alternative to traditional housing is a greenhouse-type structure called a "hoop house." A hoop house has an arched metal frame that is covered with a heavy fabric. Fabrics last for approximately 15 years.

Sheep facilities do not need to be built new. Old dairy, swine, and poultry barns can be converted to housing for sheep. Many facilities can be remodeled to accommodate sheep raising. Many universities and provincial governments have building plans for sheep facilities. 

Site location

Facilities should be located on elevated, well-drained sites. When designing a three-sided shelter, the open side should face south away from the prevailing wind. The barn should be easily accessible for deliveries and manure handling. The site should allow for installation of water and electricity.

Space requirements

When confined to a building, a bred ewe requires 12 to 16 square feet of living space. Lambing pens should be 16 to 25 square feet in size. In group housing, a ewe with her lambs needs 16 to 20 square feet. Feeder lambs need 8 to 10 square feet. 

Less space is required if sheep are raised on slatted floors or if they have access to an exercise area or pasture. Shearing before housing will allow stocking rates in the barn to be increased by up to 20%.

Recommended housing space (square feet) for sheep and lambs 

. Dirt lot Open shedConfinement(dirt floor)

Confinement(slatted floors)

Bred ewe 20 8 12-16 8-10

Ewe with lambs 25 12 16-20 10-12

Ram 20 8 20-30 14-20

Feeder lamb 15-20 6 8-10 4-6

Source: Midwest Plan Service, Sheep Housing and Equipment Handbook, 1982

Ventilation

Barns should not be heated or closed up. Good ventilation is an absolute must. Respiratory problems (e.g. pneumonia and bronchitis) often result from poor ventilation. If ammonia can be smelled in the barn, ventilation is likely inadequate.

Ventilation can be accomplished by either natural or mechanical means, but usually naturally-ventilated cold housing is preferable for sheep. It is better to over-ventilate than under-ventilate. The only requirement is that sheep have a dry, draft-free area for lambing. 

Bedding

Bedding provides warmth, insulation, and comfort to housed animals. Various materials can be used for bedding for sheep, depending upon their cost and availability: straw, hay, dried corn stalks, corn cobs, peanut hulls, cottonseed hulls, oat hulls, sawdust, wood shavings, wood chips, pine shavings, sand, paper products, peat, hemp, and leaves. Each type of bedding has advantages and disadvantages. 

Straw is the traditional bedding for livestock. It comes from the stems of small grains: oats, wheat, rye or barley. Since straw has many uses other than livestock bedding sometimes it costs more than alfalfa hay. As a result, hay is often a cheaper alternative than straw.

Sawdust is not good bedding for wooled sheep because it gets in their fleeces, but works fine for hair sheep. Wood chips or peanut shells are less absorbent than other materials, but can be used as bedding. 

Shredded paper (or newsprint) is more absorbent than straw, but is more difficult to handle and may look offensive when spread on fields. Sand has been used by dairy farms to reduce mastitis and improve cow comfort. No matter what material is used for bedding, it needs to be clean and dry. 

Livestock bedding alternatives

Bedding material Absorption factor*

Wheat straw 2.1

Barley straw 2.0

Oat straw 2.4 to 2.5

Hay 3.0

Sawdust 1.5 to 2.5

Shavings 1.5 to 2.0

Corn stover 2.5

Sand 0.3

Peat moss 10.0

* Weight of water held per unit of try material. Assumes initial moisture content of bedding < 10%.

Source: Livestock Bedding Alternatives, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, 1997.

Keeping Sheep Outside Year-round

Some producers keep their sheep outside year-round. It is more natural. Sheep kept outside benefit from better ventilation and more exercise. Their fleeces stay cleaner. Winter grazing can result in considerable feed savings. Tall fescue is usually the best forage for stockpiled grazing. 

Sheep can graze through approximately 12 inches of snow. If the snow is not hard or crusted, the sheep can usually eat enough snow to meet their water requirements; otherwise they need to be watered at least once per day. Lactating ewes should have access to water at all times. 

It is common to temporarily house sheep after shearing and/or during lambing. Adult sheep can handle cold and wet weather rather well, but newborn lambs cannot. The combination of cold and wet can kill even a two week old lamb, if there is not sufficient shelter. Emergency shelter is needed for bad storms. Nutrition is the key to keeping sheep outside in the winter. If they have enough to eat, they will stay warm.

Not having to clean the barn and spread manure on the fields is another major benefit to keeping sheep outside.

Shelter and Shade

There is disagreement as to whether sheep require shelter while they are on summer pasture. Sheep will usually choose shelter if it is available to them. Protection from heat is probably more important than protection from rain, though hair sheep are more likely to seek shelter from rain than wooled sheep and less likely to seek shade during the heat of the day. 

In many cases, trees or a windbreak is all the shelter that sheep need. In open fields without sufficient tree coverage, simple run-in sheds or shade structures can be constructed or purchased. Port-a-huts, calf hutches, polydomes, and carports are useful for small flocks.

Total Confinement

Sheep can adapt to a complete confinement system of production. Confinement enables a producer to raise sheep or increase flock size in situations where land is a limiting factor due to availability or cost. Confinement can vary from open, dry (dirt) lots to buildings with expanded metal floors and automated manure handling systems. Confinement requires intensive, year-round management. Because it tends to have a higher cost of production, higher levels of performance are usually required. 

There are numerous advantages to raising sheep and/or lambs in total confinement. Predator problems can be eliminated by keeping sheep in confinement. Internal parasite problems can be practically eliminated, as infective worm larvae is consumed primarily by grazing animals.

It is usually easier to control foot rot and foot scald in confinement. Confinement lends itself well to automated feeding systems. It is common to fatten (feed) lambs in confinement. Less space is needed if expanded metal or mesh flooring is used. The use of rubber mats will improve comfort and insulation.

In fragile environments, confinement can prevent overgrazing or other environmental impacts caused by poor grazing management. Zero grazing is common in many third world environments.

Security is superior when animals are kept in small areas that can be more easily monitored.

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Feeding and watering equipment

Feeding equipment

Feeders are a necessity for almost all livestock enterprises. Feeding on the ground results in considerable feed wastage and contributes to the spread of disease, especially internal parasites and abortion. If sheep are able to stand in their feed or feeders, they may defecate and/or urinate in the feed. Feeders need to be raised off the ground and constructed in such a way to keep sheep and lambs out (as much as possible).

There are various designs for grain feeders. V-shaped feeders are easier to clean than feeders with square bottoms. Rubber or metal pans are useful for hand feeding small numbers of animals. Feeders that can be hung on the side of the fence, then removed after the sheep/lambs have finished eating, are especially effective. Some producers have constructed fence line feeders from PVC pipe.

Hay can be fed in bunks or racks or along a fence line. V-shaped racks with vertical or diagonal slats work best. Round hay bales should be fed in feeders with movable sides or an overhead rack. There should be enough feeder space for all sheep and/or lambs to eat at once. Ewes require approximately 16 linear inches of feeder space. Lambs require 12 inches of feeder space. Less feeder space is needed if animals are self-fed rations: 8 to 12 inches for ewes and 2 to 4 inches for lambs.

Minerals can be incorporated into the ration or offered free choice, preferably in a loose form. Commercial mineral feeders are available from farm supply stores and sheep equipment manufacturers. Mineral feeders can be made from tires, PVC pipe, and plastic garbage cans. If fed outside, a lid is needed to keep minerals dry. Building plans for feeders may be available at many county extension offices.

Recommended feeder space for sheep and lambs

. Ram Dry ewe Ewes with lambs Lambs

. 180-300 lbs. 150-200 lbs. with 5-30 lb. lambs 30-110 lbs.

Limit-fed 12 in. 16-20 in. 16-20 in. 9-12 in.

Self-fed 6 in. 4-6 in. 6-8 in. 1-2 in.

Creep . . 2 in. per lamb .

Source: Midwest Plan Service, Sheep Housing and Equipment Handbook, 1982.

Watering systems

Clean, fresh water is a daily necessity for sheep and lambs. Sheep will consume anywhere from ½ to 4 gallons of water per day, depending upon their physiological state, the content of water in their feed, and environmental conditions. Requirements increase greatly during late gestation and lactation. Water intake is positively correlated to feed intake.

Water can be free flowing or provided in buckets, troughs, tubs, stock tanks or automatic waterers. It goes without saying that water sources should be kept clean and free from hay, straw, and fecal matter. Smaller troughs are easier to drain and clean. Water will be more readily consumed during cold weather if the water is ice-free and during hot, humid weather if the water source is in the shade. 

Sheep prefer to drink still water as opposed to water from a moving stream. It is generally recommended that streams be fenced off and that livestock not be allowed to drink from natural water sources. Giving livestock access to stream bank areas may cause environmental problems, though sheep are more desirable for grazing riparian areas than larger livestock.

Sometimes, sheep will seem to drink very little water. This is probably because they are consuming feeds or forages that are sufficiently high in moisture content. As the grass gets drier or their diet gets drier, they will consume more water.

Recommended watering space for sheep and lambs

. Ram Dry ewe Ewes with lambs Lambs

. 180-300 lbs. 150-200 lbs. with 5-30 lb. lambs 30-110 lbs.

Bowl 10 hd 40-50 40-50 50-75

Nipple 10 40-50 40-50 50-75

Tank 2 15-25 15-25 25-40

Source: Midwest Plan Service, Sheep Housing and Equipment Handbook, 1982.

Feed Storage

All feedstuffs –-hay, grain, salt, and minerals-– need to be kept dry and protected from rodents and other pests. Feed must be accessible in all weather conditions, but inaccessible to livestock. Many livestock deaths have resulted when livestock gain free choice access to grain or similar feedstuffs. Ample feed storage can result in considerable cost savings if feed ingredients can be purchased and stored in bulk on the farm.

Unprotected hay deteriorates in quality. Hay should not be left uncovered. Hay bales should be stored in hay lofts, storage sheds, or covered with tarps if stored outside. Hay and straw bales should not be placed in a barn unless they are thoroughly dry; otherwise there is risk of overheating and fire. Hay should not be placed directly on the ground or it will mold on the bottom of the bales.

A bulk grain bin is a good investment, even for a small producer. It enables the producer to accept bulk deliveries of grain or purchase commodities directly from grain producers or dealers at farm gate prices. Salt and minerals and smaller amounts of grain can be stored in barrels, garbage cans, or old freezers/refrigerators or stored on pallets.

Fencing

Fencing is usually the largest capital expenditure on a sheep farm. In many cases, existing fence can be modified for sheep-raising. Two types of fencing are required on sheep farms: perimeter and interior fencing. 

Perimeter fencing is usually installed around the boundary of the property (or grazing area) and is the first line of defense against predators. It is intended to last for a long period of time and should be constructed of high quality materials. Suitable perimeter fences for sheep are multi-strand, high-tensile, electric fences and woven wire fences with electric offset wires and barbed wires at the top and bottom of the fence.

Interior fences (or cross fences) are used to subdivide fields into smaller areas (paddocks) for grazing. Interior fences may be constructed from permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary fencing materials. 

While an interior fence does not need to deter predators, it does need to be good enough to keep weaned lambs away from their dams and/or rams away from ewes. Temporary fencing can be used to enclosed areas for temporary grazing (e.g. a corn or wheat field). 

Perimeter Fencing

High-tensile, electric

High-tensile electric fences last for a long time, are relatively easy to construct, and cost less than other types of fencing. Whereas cattle can often be controlled with 1 or 2 strands of electric wire, sheep require multiple strands, not so much to keep them in, but to keep potential predators out. 

Five, six or seven strands of 12 ½ gauge high-tensile wire is common for sheep fences. The bottom wires of the fence are more closely spaced than the top wires. Wire spacings of approximately 6, 5, 5, 8 and 10 inches are typical. In areas where there is relatively even rainfall and some green vegetation most of the year, it is recommended that all wires be hot. 

Ground return wires are recommended where there is low rainfall, stony and dry soil conditions, or where the ground is frequently frozen or snow covered. Switches can be installed so that wires can be turned off if the situation warrants. For example, it is useful to put a switch on the wire closest to the ground, so that it can be turned off if there is too much vegetation on the fence line.

High-tensile fences are made with smooth wire that is pulled to an initial tension of 250 pounds. They require strong corners and end braces to achieve adequate tension. The wire is held on fence posts with staples. These staples are driven at a slight angle off of vertical so the slash cut points steer the staple into different grains of the wood. The staples are not driven tight against the wire, but instead allow freedom for the wire to move during tensioning, temperature changes, or livestock pressure.

GroundingPoor grounding is the leading cause of electric fence failures. An electric fence must be properly grounded so that the pulse can complete its circuit and give the animal an effective shock. It is important to follow manufacturer's instructions for grounding electric fences. A minimum of three ground rods should be used for each energizer. It is estimated that 80% of electric fences in the U.S. are improperly grounded. A voltmeter is an inexpensive tool that measures the charge the fence delivers and can be used to trouble shoot electric fence problems.

The chargerThe charger (or energizer) is the "heart" of the electric fence system. It converts main or battery power into a high voltage pulse or "shock" as felt by the animal when it touches the fence. In the past, electric fence chargers shorted out easily. Today's chargers are low impedance, meaning they are designed to effectively shock though vegetation and other foreign materials touching the fence.

A 4,000 volt charger is usually sufficient for sheep. The number of joules needed depends on the length of the fence, the number of electrified wires and the severity of conditions. A joule is the amount of energy released per pulse. As a general rule, 1 joule will power 6 miles of single fence wire; 4.5 joules is usually adequate for 20 to 50 acres. Lightning strikes can damage energizers. Surge protectors and lightening arrestors are recommended to minimize energizer damage.

High tensile electric fencing requires periodic upkeep. Fence wires should be kept properly tensioned. Weeds and brush should be cleared from the fence line by spraying or mowing.

It is important to note that an electric fence much more of a psychological barrier rather than a physical one. Sheep and lambs must be trained to respect electric fence. Once trained, they will usually respect the fence even if it is off for any reason. 

Woven Wire (American Wire, Page Wire)

Woven wire is the traditional type of fencing for sheep. It consists of horizontal lines of smooth wire held apart by vertical wires called "stays." The distance or spacing between horizontal line wires may vary from as close as 1 1/2 inches at the bottom for small animals, to as wide as 9 inches at the top for large animals. In general, the spacing between wires gets wider as the fence gets taller. Stay wires should be spaced 6 inches apart for small animals and 12 inches for large animals.

A four-foot high woven wire fence, with one to two strands of barbed or electric wire along the top of the fence makes an excellent perimeter fence for sheep. A strand of barbed wire along the bottom of the fence will serve as a "rust" wire and extend the life of the fence. 

An electric "offset" wire at shoulder height will keep sheep from poking their heads through the fence. Another offset wire, approximately 7 inches up from the ground will help to deter predators that try to go under fences.

High tensile woven wire fences are more expensive but will not sag or stretch as readily as standard woven wire. They are more resistant to rust and are considerably lighter in weight. Less fence posts are needed with high tensile woven wire.

The advantage to woven wire fences is their effectiveness as a visual barrier. Their biggest disadvantage is their cost. 

Mesh wireMesh wire fences have smaller openings than woven wire fences. Two types of mesh wire are the diamond mesh, which uses two wires twisted together in a diamond formation with 2-inch x 4-inch openings, and the square knot mesh, which has single horizontal lines with the wire spaced 2 to 4 inches apart. Because they are more expensive than woven wire, they tend to be used for confinement fencing, such as corrals and barnyards. 

Barbed Wire FencesBarbed wire fences are generally not recommended for sheep because they may not effectively deter predators and they can cause injury to livestock. Sheep can get their wool snagged in the barbs. Barbed wires should not be charged due to their poor conductivity and safety for the animals. 

When barbed wire fences are used they should contain at least 5 to 6 wires, preferably 8 to 10 closely-spaced wires with several twisted vertical stays. The best use of barbed wire is to rejuvenate old fences or enhance woven wire fences. It is common to install 1 or 2 strands of barbed wire along the top of a woven wire fence and/or one wire along the bottom of the fence. 

Rail Fencing (wood or vinyl)Rail fencing will generally not contain sheep or repel predators unless electric wires are placed between the boards or the entire fence is covered with woven or mesh wire. Rail fences are expensive to build and maintain. On the other hand, permanent, wooden fences are often used for corrals and barnyards. 

Other Types of FencingFences made from hog wire or chain link, while effective are generally too expensive to enclose large parcels of land. They work well for corrals and barnyards and other high pressure areas. 

Rejuvenating Old FencesOld fences can last many more years by attaching offset brackets and an electrified wire on each side of the old fence. Single off-set wires should be set at two-thirds of the height of the animals to be

controlled. The old fence can serve as the ground wire and will work well to complete the circuit and control the sheep. 

Fence heightFences can be built at different heights. Commercial fencing products come in different heights. Most predators climb, go through, or go under fences, as compared to over them.

Fence PostsThere are many types of fence posts. Fence post selection should be based on the specific fencing need. For example, treated wood posts are best for permanent boundary fences, while steel or fiberglass posts are suitable for temporary fences. Wood posts are highly variable in size and shape. Strength of wood posts increases with top diameter. Post strength is especially important for corner and gate posts, which should have a top diameter of at least 8 inches.

Brace posts should be 5 inches or more in top diameter. Line posts can be as small as 2 1/2-inches in top diameter, although larger diameter posts make fences stronger and more durable. T-posts and landscape timbers can also be used for line posts. 

Steel posts offer a number of advantages. They are lighter in weight, fireproof, extremely durable, and relatively easy to drive. They also ground fence against lightning when in contact with moist soil. Fence posts must be long enough to accommodate fence height, depth of setting, and an additional 6 inches. One of the advantages of high tensile fencing is that it requires less fence posts. 

Most fences use a post spacing of 8 ft. whereas the line spacing on high tensile fences varies from 16 to 90 feet. Post spacing needs to be adjusted for topography, livestock pressure, post size, wire tension, and use of poly spacers, battens, or droppers. 

Estimated construction costs for fencing (based on 1,320 feet, ¼mile)

Type Total cost Cost per foot

Woven wire, 1 barbed strand $1,987.09 $1.51

Barbed wire, 5 strands $1,613.65 $1.22

High tensile, non-electric, 8 strands $1,483.75 $1.12

High tensile, electric, 5 strands $927.13 $0.70

Electrified polywire, 3 strands $309.69 $0.24

Source: Estimated Costs for Livestock Fencing, Iowa State University, updated 2005.

WireWire may be galvanized steel, aluminum, or aluminum clad steel. Several gauges and breaking strengths of wire within the different wire types are available. Steel wire is covered with zinc, commonly called galvanizing, to protect it from rusting. More zinc means more years of service before

rusting starts. 

High tensile wire typically carries three times as much zinc coating as barbed or woven wire, which accounts for its long expected life. Aluminum wire is lighter, more conductive, and never rusts; however, the breaking strength of aluminum wire is only about one third that of steel wire. A combination of these two materials is also available as aluminum clad hi-tensile steel. This is a hi-tensile steel wire with aluminum coating in place of galvanization. This wire has the high breaking strength of steel wire and the conductivity of aluminum.

12.5 gauge wire is usually the wire of choice for most permanent fences, while lighter gauges can be used for internal subdivision fences, both permanent and temporary.

InsulatorsInsulators are a fundamental component of any electric fence. They are made from a non-conductive material, such as porcelain or plastic and form a barrier between the electrified wire and its support material to prevent current leakage to the ground. Plastic insulators are the most common type of insulator used on electric fences. They are cheap and easy to fit. 

Porcelain insulators have the best insulation properties, and if good quality, are the strongest. They are the most expensive. Plastic tube insulators are useful for taking a line wire around a post. Off-set insulators are used to attach a wire to a new fence or a non-electric fence. Cut-off switches are used to isolate parts of a fence without the need to turn off the energizer. 

Temporary fencing

Different materials can be used to construct temporary electric fences: high-tensile wire, polywire, polytape, and electric netting (or net fence). 

High-TensileLight weight, high-tensile wire (17 or 19 gauge) is most suitable for semi-permanent fences that will not be moved constantly. Two or three wires is usually sufficient to control sheep and lambs.

Polywire and PolytapeThe most common materials used for temporary fencing are polywire and polytape. Both are combinations of metal and plastic filaments. Polywire has the appearance of heavy cord or plastic baler twine. It comes in several colors or combinations of colors. Several grades are available depending upon the number of filaments and gauge of the conductor. Most polywire sold is either 6 or 9 strand. 

Polytape similarly comes in several options and should be purchased on the basis of the number of filaments and the quality of the plastic weave. Compare to polywire, tape has the advantage of greater visibility, which leads to quicker animal recognition and training to the fence. Polywire is less expensive and lasts longer. Poly products come in reels with various capacities and with different locking systems. If you plan to move a fence, reels are an absolute necessity for polywire and polytape. 

Step-in postsPlastic step-in posts are the most common line posts used with poly products. They are the easiest to use, especially if the fence will be moved frequently. The pre-molded loops provide plenty of flexibility for wire spacings. The metal re-bar posts are cheaper and last longer than plastic or fiberglass posts. They require insulators to hold the wires and can be difficult to get in the ground when the soil is hard. 

Fiberglass postsFiberglass posts are best suited to situations where the fence will not be moved frequently. Drive caps are usually used to hammer fiberglass posts into the ground. A spent shotgun shell also works well Wire clips or plastic insulators are used to hold the wire in place. All types of posts can be difficult to install during the winter. 

T postsMetal “t” posts are stronger and last longer than the other temporary posts, but they cost more and require more labor to install and remove. 

Electric Netting

Electric netting combines traits of net-wire and electric fencing, providing a formidable mental and physical barrier in a portable format suitable for temporary or semi-permanent fencing of pastures. It is constructed of polywires and plastic twines. It is usually supplied in fixed lengths of 50 or 25 meters with support posts already installed. 

Netting is lightweight and easy to install. Compared to other temporary fences, electric netting provides greater protection from predators. However, with electric netting, there is some risk of animal entanglement, especially young lambs and animals with horns.

Comparison of fencing types

Type Pros Cons Best use

Barbed wireMay already exist on

property

SafetyStock control

Predator control

In combination with woven wire

Woven wireVisual barrier

Predator control

CostInstallation

Entanglement

PermanentPerimeter 

Holding areas

Stock panelsVisual barrier

StrengthCost

InstallationCorrals

Holding areas

Mesh wire Visual barrierCost

InstallationPerimeter

Holding areas

BoardSplit-railVinyl

Physical barrierAesthetics

CostInstallation

High maintenanceStock control

Predator control

EstatesFarm entrance

High tensile,non-electric

Long lifeInstallation 

Predator control PerimeterCorrals

Cost Holding areas

High tensileelectric5 to 7 strands

Long lifeInstallation

Cost Predator control

Maintenance of fencelines

PermanentPerimeterInterior

Polywire2 to 3 wires

CostInstallation

Short lifePredator control

Interior Temporary

Polytape2 to 3 strands

CostInstallation

Short lifePredator control

Interior Temporary

Electric2 to 3 wires

CostInstallation

Predator controlInterior 

Temporary

Electric nettingVisual barrierInstallation

Cost Entanglement

Short life

InteriorTemporarySmall areas

Chain linkMay have materials

Visual barrierPredator proof

CostInstallation

CorralsHolding areas

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Handling sheep and lambs

Though frequency and need varies, it is usually necessary to handle sheep several times per year for various reasons. Without an easy way to handle sheep and lambs, important tasks often get delayed or forgotten. Improper handling causes needless stress to both the sheep and the handler(s).

Basic concepts of livestock handling

A thorough understanding of sheep behavior is the first step towards developing an effective method of handling sheep. Their strong flocking and following behavior tends to make sheep easy to handle, relative to other livestock species. Conversely, sheep will prove difficult to handle if you force them to act in ways that are not natural for them.

Reasons for handling sheep

Body condition scoringCatchingCrutching

DewormingDipping

Ear taggingFAMACHA© scoring

Foot soaking

LoadingPregnancy testing

ShearingSorting

Treating Ultrasound scanning

VaccinatingWeighing

Hoof trimming

Flight zoneOne of the most basic concepts in handling sheep and other livestock is the flight zone. All animals have a flight zone. A flight zone is an animal's personal space. It is where the animal feels comfortable and unthreatened. When a person is outside the animal's flight zone, the animal will turn and face the handler. 

It is best to work on the outside of an animal's flight zone. If the flight zone is penetrated too deeply, animal behavior can be unpredictable and dangerous. Sheep are not large, but they are quick on their feet and strong for their size. Pile-ups can result in small enclosures, causing injury to the animals, especially the small or weak ones.

The size of an animal's flight zone varies. It depends how wild or tame the animal is. Sheep that have not had much human contact will have a large flight zone, whereas pet sheep may not have a flight zone. Sheep confined to a small space will have a smaller flight zone than sheep confined to a large area. Frequent, gentle handling tends to diminish the size of the flight zone. At the same time, sheep have excellent memories and can remember rough handling.

Point of balancePoint of balance is another important livestock handling concept. The point of balance is at the animal's shoulder. All species of livestock will move forward if the handler steps behind the point of balance. They will back up if the handler stands in front of the point of balance. Many people make the mistake of standing in front of the point of balance while trying to get livestock to move forward through a chute. Sheep will usually refuse to move if they see people up ahead.

Moving sheepVery often, you need to move sheep, to bring them in from a pasture or to move them to another pasture. If you don't have a herding dog to fetch the sheep, you can train the sheep to come to a vocal command or rattle of the feed bucket. Most sheep will come when they think they are going to get grain to eat. 

If these don't work, it will be necessary to go out to the field to get the flock and either drive them from behind or lead them with a feed bucket or lead sheep. Pet sheep are difficult to drive and make good lead sheep. If the sheep aren't familiar with where you want to move them, you may need several people to act as herders. Always move sheep slowly, calmly, and quietly. Do not allow splinter groups to develop.

To move individual sheep, hold the sheep under its jaw and push its dock ("go-button"). Small numbers of sheep can be halter-broken for ease of moving and handling. Attempting to lead a sheep that is not halter-broken is usually a futile exercise.

Catching sheep

There are situations in which you need to catch an individual sheep. If you do not have a handling system to assist you, you can use gates and panels to make a small catch pen. You should make the pen small enough so that you do not have to chase the sheep. The smaller the catch pen, the easier it will be to catch the sheep. No one likes to chase sheep and the more you chase sheep, the harder it will become to catch them, not to mention the unnecessary stress you are causing both of you.

Once the sheep are in the catch pen, maneuver them into a corner and use your arms or a portable gate to form a visual barrier. Always approach sheep calmly and slowly. Cup your hand under the jaw of the sheep you want. Grab the bony part of the jaw, not the throat. Point the sheep's nose upward to stop its forward motion. If you keep the sheep's head up, you will be able to maintain control of it. Sheep have a lot more power when their head is down. You can also use a shepherd's crook to catch a sheep by the neck.

If you cannot get close enough to the sheep to grab it under its jaw, you can reach for its hind leg or rear flank. Reach for the hind leg above the hock, then move your other hand up to control the head as soon as possible. Adult sheep are able to kick strongly, so this method works best for small sheep or young lambs. To catch an adult sheep, it is better to grab the rear flank. A leg crook can also be used to catch a sheep by the leg. The leg crook is especially useful in open areas.

You should never catch a sheep by its wool. Not only is it painful to the sheep, but it can cause bruising to the carcass.

Restraining sheep

There are many different ways to restrain a sheep, depending upon what you need to do to it. Once you've caught the sheep, you can press it against a wall or straddle it to limit its movement. A halter is one of the easiest ways to restrain a sheep for treatment or close inspection.

Tipping sheepIf you want to trim a sheep's hooves or gain access to its underside you'll probably want to set the sheep on its rump. Setting a sheep on its rump is called tipping. Sheep in this position struggle very little and are easy to work with. To rest comfortable on its rump, the sheep should be off center, so that it is sitting on its hip and not is dock. If the sheep struggles, you can place a hand on its brisket to move it into a better position. There are several ways to tip a sheep. The method you use often depends upon the size of the sheep. Here's a common method for tipping sheep.

How to tip a sheep

1. Stand to the side of the sheep.2. Hold the sheep's head in your left hand by placing your hand under its

jaw.3. Your left knee should be near or just behind the sheep's left shoulder.4. Your right leg should be touching the sheep's side near its left hip.5. Place your right hand on the sheep's back over the hips.6. Turn the sheep's nose away from you towards its shoulder.7. You should feel the weight of the sheep lean against your legs.8. Put pressure on the hips with your right hand so the sheep cannot pick its

back feet off the floor.9. Take a step back with your right leg.10. The hind leg of the sheep should start to go down.11. Continue to bring the head around until the sheep is sitting down with its

back leaning against your legs.

Tipping larger sheep can be more difficult. A large sheep can be tipped by reaching underneath its body and grabbing its farthest legs, until it drops to its rump. Sometimes, this is a two person job. Small sheep or lambs can usually be tipped by holding them under their front legs, lifting them, and using your knee to push their rumps out. 

Restraining devices

Mechanical restraining devices make it easier, faster, and safer for one person to handle a sheep. A gambrel restrainer is a device made out of PVC plastic. It is placed over the sheep's neck and has slots on either side to hold both front legs of the sheep. Without the use of its front feet or the ability to raise its head, the sheep is immobilized. Hunters use gambrels to hang animal carcasses.

A sheep "chair" holds a sheep on its rump in the shearing position. The chair consists of a metal frame with a plastic netting or mesh that is attached to the top and bottom of the chair. The frame is hooked over a gate or leaned against a building. The sheep is backed into the chair, until it "sits." The primary purpose of a sheep chair is to position and restrain a sheep for hoof trimming; however, in this position many other things can be done to the sheep. The chair provides easy access to the sheep's ears, mouth, brisket, udder, and testicles. It can also be used for a caesarian section. The chair is laid out flat and the sheep's legs are tied to the frame. 

A trimming or blocking stand can be used to restrain a sheep for various purposes. Stands allow you to work on a sheep without bending over. A neck piece holds the sheep secure. Most sheep quickly learn not to step over the edges of the table. Some stands have a winch which allows the user to raise and lower the deck of the chair.

A turning cradle or tilt table squeezes the sheep and turns it on its side or upside down. Cradles and tilt tables are easier to use when they are attached to a chute. The primary purpose of these devices is hoof trimming. Hoof trimming is one of the most laborious tasks associated with sheep raising. If you have a lot of sheep, a turn table can "save" your back.

A shearing table restrains a sheep for shearing and enable a producer to do his own shearing. It is especially useful for producers who lack the skill or physical ability to shear sheep the conventional way.

While all restraining devices will cause some degree of stress, they should not cause pain to the sheep. Sheep will remember bad experiences and the person causing their pain. Sheep can be trained to accept voluntary restraint and under research conditions have demonstrated the ability to select the least stressful method of restraint.

Sheep handling equipment

In a small flock, sheep can be handled while they are crowded into a small pen. For a larger flock, a handling system is recommended. A handling system is a set of inter-connecting working pens. How many sheep are needed to justify the expense of a handling system depends upon the need for handling, the cost of the system, and the preferences of the shepherd. Handling systems usually pay for themselves quickly.

Sheep handling systems can be constructed out of wood, steel (galvanized or painted), or aluminum. They can be permanent or portable facilities. Building plans for sheep handling systems and individual components are available from USDA (some extension offices and web sites) and the MidWest (MWPS) and Canada Plan Service. Handling systems that work for sheep are usually suitable for goats.

The complexity of a sheep handling system usually depends upon the flock size and the need for handling. The basic components of a handling system are a gathering pen, crowding pen, chute, and cutting or sorting gate.

Gathering penThe gathering pen is a large enclosed area that is used to receive the sheep before they are put into the crowding pen. It should be large enough to accommodate the largest number of animals that will

be worked at one time. It may need to be big enough to hold all the ewes and their lambs at one time. Five to six square feet per ewe and 3 to 4 square feet per lamb is recommended. The panels and gates used to make the gathering pen should be open. The gathering pen may serve other uses on the farm.

Crowding penThe crowding (or forcing) pen is used to direct sheep into a chute. It can also be used to select individual animals for treatment or to closely inspect them. The crowding pen can serve as a catch pen for small flocks. Crowding pens can be circular or rectangular in shape. The sides should be solid, so that the sheep will not be distracted, and they will follow their flock mates into the chute.

ChuteThe chute (or raceway) is where the sheep will move through, usually in a single file. The front end of the chute should be kept open so that the sheep don't see a dead end. Sheep must always think there is a way out. Once the chute is full, the shepherd usually stands outside of it and reaches over the side to treat and handle the sheep. 

Once all the sheep have been worked, they are sorted and/or released and the chute is refilled with sheep from the crowding pen, which in turn is refilled with sheep from the gathering pen. Young lambs will flow through the handling system more easily if they are with well-trained older sheep for the first few times. A lead animal can also be used to get the flock started through the chute.

The length of the chute tends to vary by flock size, but should be a least 8 feet long. Longer chutes can be divided with gates. These gates should be see through. Proper chute width is critical. The chute must be narrow enough so that the sheep cannot turn around. Most chutes have sloping and/or adjusting sides to accommodate different size animals and fleece lengths. 

Anti-backup devices can be installed to prevent the sheep from backing or piling up. The chute should not be taller than 36 inches, otherwise the shepherd won't be able to reach over it. At the end of the chute, there should be a cutting or sorting gate which leads to holding pens, a loading ramp, or back to pasture.

The handling system may include other components such as a turn table or cradle, head gate, elevated platform, scales, foot troughs, or loading ramp. A head gate locks the sheep's head so that it cannot move forward or backwards. Any number of tasks can be performed when an animal is secured in a head gate. Foot troughs can be set in the chute and filled with chemicals to treat or prevent foot rot or foot scald. Working sheep on an elevated platform will reduce bending. 

Herding dogs

A well-trained herding dog can save a shepherd a great deal of time and effort when gathering, holding, and moving sheep. At the same time, a poorly trained herding dog will do more harm than good and will greatly stress the sheep. The use of herding dogs utilizes the predator-prey relationship.

Many breeds of dogs have been used for working sheep, but the Border Collie is the most popular. Because a good dog is measured by its herding performance, Border Collies do not have a uniform appearance. Though generally of medium size (25-55 pounds), they vary in size, color, and hair coat. Border Collies are highly intelligent and full of energy. They are not always suitable as (just) pets

Success with a herding dog starts with purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder -- not from a pet shop, "puppy mill" or breeder who raises "show" dogs. A dog's conformation has little to do with its ability to work sheep. A good working dog comes from good working parents.

There are numerous resources on training herding dogs. A reputable breeder should offer advice on starting and training a pup. If you don't have the time to properly train a herding dog, consider purchasing a trained or started dog. 

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