Sheep were first domesticated in the Middle East around 11,000 years ago. They were originally raised for their meat and milk, but their wool soon became an important commodity as well. Sheep were introduced to Europe around 7,000 years ago, and to North America by European settlers in the 16th century.
Sheep farming has played an important role in human history. Wool was used to make clothing, blankets, and other textiles. Sheep were also used as a source of meat and milk. In some cultures, sheep were also used for religious purposes.
Sheep farming is the raising and breeding of domestic sheep. Sheep are raised principally for their meat, lamb or mutton, for their milk, or for wool. They also yield sheepskin and parchment. Sheep are also very selective in their grazing habits. Sheep have a split in their upper lip, with which they are able to pick the preferred leaves off of the plant. Sheep usually give birth once a year and have 1-3 lambs. They normally live to be about 8 years old, but can sometimes live to be as old as 20. Pregnancy lasts for 147 days. Lambs form strong bonds with their mothers. They can identify their mother by her bleat. Sheep are ruminants. They have a four-chambered stomach, using the first chamber to store quickly ingested food (cud) which they then bring back into their mouths to chew again before fully digesting it. Sheep spend about a third of their life ruminating and need peace and quiet.
Maturity Duration: 3-5months
Expected Yield: 1-3 Lambs per year.
Growing Season per Year: Sheep can live for 8 years.
Nutritional Value: Total fat 21g 32%, saturated fat 9g 45%, monosaturated fat 9g, polysaturated fat 1.5g, cholesterol 97mg 32%, sodium 72mg 3%, potassium 310mg 8%, protein 25g 50%, calcium 1%, vitamin B12 43%, iron 10%, vitamin B6 5% and magnesium 5% .
