How are sheep raised?
Sheep facts and common terminology
History of Lamb Production: Lambs have been domesticated throughout since ancient times. They have provided milk, meat and clothing to people for more than 10,000 years.
Breeds: There are hundreds of sheep breeds in the world. Common breeds in the US are Columbia, Hampshire, Rambouillet and Suffolk.
Ewe – female that has given birth
Ewe lamb - female that has not yet been bred
Lamb – sheep of either gender, less than 1 year old
Mutton – meat from a sheep more than 1 year old
Yearling – sheep between 1 and 2 years old
Spring Lamb – lamb born in the late fall, and market ready in the spring. Typically, market ready at 3-4 months of age and under 60 lbs live weight.
Imperial Lamb – lambs born and raised in the Imperial Valley area of California.
Wool breeds – sheep that are raised for the quality of their wool, such as Rambouillet and Cormo.
Meat breeds – sheep that are raised for the quality of their meat, such as Suffolk, Hampshire and Dorset.
Dual purpose - sheep that are commonly raised for both meat and wool, such as Columbia, Polypay and Targhee. Rambouillet often plays the role of a dual purpose breed as well.
Dairy breeds - sheep that are raised for milk production, such as East Friesian and Lacaune.