Sheep (Ovis aries) are domesticated ruminant mammals primarily raised for wool, meat, and milk. They are social animals that thrive in flocks and are well-suited to grazing on pastures. Adaptable to various climates, sheep are an integral part of sustainable agriculture, contributing to land management and soil health.

Data:

  • Habitat:

    • Temperature: Ideal: 10-20°C (50-68°F); Range: -20°C to 30°C (-4°F to 86°F) with proper shelter.
    • Pressure: 101.3 kPa (1 atm); can adapt to higher altitudes.
    • Humidity: 40-70% optimal; extremes (<20% or >80%) may cause stress.
    • Oxygen: Standard atmospheric levels (19.5-23.5%).
    • CO2: Tolerable up to 0.1%; higher levels can cause respiratory issues.
    • Light: Adapted to daylight and low-light conditions; no special UV protection needed.

  • Nutrition:

    • Water: 4-6 liters/day depending on size and weather conditions.
    • Calories: 2,000-3,000 kcal/day based on size and activity.
    • Macronutrients:
      • Carbohydrates: Grasses, hay, and forage plants.
      • Proteins: Grass and leguminous plants (e.g., clover).
      • Fats: Natural from forage; important for wool quality.
    • Vitamins: A, D, E, and B complex for growth, immune health, and wool production.
    • Minerals: Calcium (bones), Magnesium (metabolism), Selenium (immune function).

  • Production:

    • CO2: Approx. 0.5-1 kg/day depending on size and activity.
    • Waste: 1-2 kg of manure/day; solid and liquid waste.
    • Heat: Generate moderate body heat; wool helps maintain warmth.
    • Sweat: Minimal; wool and respiratory heat exchange regulate temperature.

  • Reproduction:

    • Method: Sexual; live birth.
    • Gestation: Approximately 5 months (150 days).
    • Cycle: Estrous cycle every 17 days; breeding season dependent on breed and location.
    • Offspring: Typically 1-2 lambs per birth.
    • Care: Lambs weaned around 8-12 weeks.

  • Sleep/Rest:

    • Cycle: Sleeps 4-6 hours/day in short intervals, usually lying down.
    • Active Period: Diurnal; most active during daylight hours.

  • Lifespan: 10-12 years; production sheep often have shorter lifespans.

  • Growth:

    • Maturity: Reach full size at 1-2 years.
    • Size: Adult weight: 45-100 kg; height: 60-90 cm at the shoulder.

  • Uses:

    • For Humans: Wool, meat (lamb/mutton), milk, land management.
    • Ecosystem: Grazers that help control vegetation and promote soil health.

  • Special Traits:

    • Grazing Efficiency: Selective grazers that manage and maintain grasslands.
    • Wool Production: Thick wool coats provide insulation and are harvested for textiles.
    • Social Behavior: Flock animals; form strong social bonds and follow flock leaders.
    • Adaptability: Thrive in diverse environments, from mountains to pastures.
    • Reproductive Rate: Generally efficient breeders with 1-2 offspring per season.
    • Calm Temperament: Generally docile and easy to manage, making them ideal for various farming practices.