Raising rams and ewes is a traditional and vital form of animal husbandry that continues to support economies, food systems, and rural livelihoods around the world. A person who practices the care, breeding, and management of sheep is known as a shepherd or sheep farmer. These individuals are responsible for all aspects of flock management, ensuring the health, productivity, and welfare of both rams (males) and ewes (females). The practice requires knowledge of breeding cycles, nutrition, disease prevention, and pasture management, especially when dealing with animals as sensitive and seasonally reproductive as sheep.
The Role of a Sheep Farmer
One practicing husbandry of rams and ewes carries out a wide range of tasks throughout the year. These duties are aimed at maintaining the health of the flock and ensuring a successful lambing season. This profession combines practical farming skills with animal science, and it plays a crucial role in meat, wool, and milk production.
Key Responsibilities
- Feeding and nutrition management for rams and ewes
- Breeding management and lambing assistance
- Health care, vaccination, and parasite control
- Shearing and wool harvesting
- Record keeping and flock monitoring
The sheep farmer must monitor both individual animal needs and the overall wellbeing of the flock, adjusting care based on seasonal changes and environmental conditions.
Understanding Ram and Ewe Behavior
Effective sheep husbandry involves understanding the natural behaviors and roles of rams and ewes within the flock. Rams are typically more dominant and used selectively for breeding purposes. Ewes, as the primary reproducers, need careful management during pregnancy and lactation.
Behavioral Characteristics
- Rams: Territorial, strong, and aggressive during breeding season (rut); require secure handling.
- Ewes: Social, nurturing, and protective of lambs; more docile and easier to manage.
Knowing when and how to introduce rams to ewes is critical for successful breeding. Farmers usually keep rams separate and bring them into contact with ewes only during the mating season.
Breeding Management
Controlled breeding practices help maximize lambing efficiency and ensure strong genetic lines. Rams are chosen based on traits such as fertility, body structure, and wool quality, while ewes are selected for health, mothering ability, and productivity.
Breeding Season and Cycle
Sheep are seasonal breeders, with most ewes coming into estrus (heat) in the fall. Rams are introduced to the flock for a limited breeding window, typically 30-45 days, to maintain uniform lambing times.
Optimal Breeding Practices
- Use a marking harness on rams to track mating activity
- Ensure ewes are in good body condition before mating
- Use one ram per 30-50 ewes to avoid overuse and fatigue
- Provide shelter and observe for signs of successful mating
Lambing and Postnatal Care
Lambing is a critical phase that demands close attention from the farmer. Ewes must be monitored for signs of labor, and assistance should be provided if delivery complications occur. Once lambs are born, ensuring they nurse quickly is vital for their survival.
Lambing Tips
- Prepare clean, dry lambing pens ahead of time
- Provide supplemental feed for pregnant ewes
- Tag and record lambs for tracking and care
- Ensure lambs receive colostrum within the first few hours
Healthy lambs and attentive mothers are signs of successful husbandry. Weak or orphaned lambs may require bottle feeding and extra warmth.
Nutrition and Feeding
Feeding is the foundation of sheep health and productivity. The nutritional needs of rams and ewes vary by age, season, and physiological stage (growth, pregnancy, lactation).
General Feeding Practices
- Provide quality pasture or hay as a primary feed source
- Supplement with grains during winter or breeding season
- Ensure access to clean water and trace mineral blocks
- Avoid sudden feed changes to prevent digestive upset
Rams require extra nutrients during the breeding season, while lactating ewes need energy-rich diets to support milk production. Poor feeding leads to low fertility, weak lambs, and health problems.
Health and Disease Management
Maintaining flock health is one of the most important aspects of sheep husbandry. Regular vaccinations, deworming, and inspections help prevent common sheep diseases and parasites.
Preventative Measures
- Vaccinate against diseases such as clostridial infections and footrot
- Rotate pastures to minimize parasite buildup
- Monitor for lameness, respiratory issues, or weight loss
- Trim hooves regularly to avoid foot problems
Working with a local veterinarian ensures that proper health protocols are followed and that sick animals receive timely treatment.
Shearing and Wool Management
In addition to meat and milk, wool is a valuable product from ewes and rams. Most breeds require annual shearing, usually in the spring, before hot weather sets in.
Shearing Tips
- Hire skilled shearers to reduce stress and injury
- Keep the shearing area clean and dry
- Sort wool by quality and cleanliness
- Store in cool, dry conditions to prevent mildew
Wool is graded and sold for use in clothing, carpets, and insulation. Proper shearing and storage preserve its value and quality.
Record Keeping and Flock Management
Good record keeping is essential for identifying trends, managing breeding lines, and tracking animal health. Many farmers use flock management software or traditional notebooks.
Information to Track
- Birth dates, weights, and parentage of lambs
- Vaccination and health treatment history
- Breeding schedules and ram usage
- Feed consumption and costs
Accurate records support decision-making and improve long-term flock performance.
Sustainable Practices in Sheep Husbandry
Modern sheep farmers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to improve land use and animal welfare. These methods focus on regenerative grazing, minimal chemical use, and biodiversity preservation.
Examples of Sustainable Actions
- Rotational grazing to promote pasture recovery
- Use of cover crops and silvopasture systems
- Natural worm control through herbal supplements
- Breeding for disease-resistant sheep breeds
These practices not only benefit the environment but also enhance flock resilience and reduce input costs over time.
One practicing husbandry of rams and ewes plays a vital role in livestock farming. Their knowledge, dedication, and care ensure that sheep are raised humanely, efficiently, and sustainably. From managing breeding and lambing to ensuring good health and productivity, the shepherd’s efforts support a diverse range of agricultural products and preserve time-honored farming traditions. With a focus on animal welfare and sustainable land management, sheep farmers contribute meaningfully to food security and rural economies around the world.