ewes

Ewes are adult female sheep (Ovis aries). In sheep production, they are kept primarily for breeding, milk to feed their lambs, and often for wool and meat. They are distinguished from rams, which are intact males, and from wethers, which are castrated males.

Reproduction and lifecycle: Ewes reach sexual maturity at roughly six to twelve months, depending on breed and nutrition. Most flocks are seasonal breeders, with mating concentrated in autumn or winter and lambing in spring, though some breeds can breed year-round. The estrous cycle in ewes lasts about 17 days, with the estrus period typically 24 to 36 hours. Gestation lasts about 141 to 152 days. Litter size commonly ranges from one to two lambs, with occasional triplets or more in higher-prolific breeds.

Maternal behavior and lactation: Ewes are usually attentive mothers, nursing their newborns within hours of birth. Milk production supports lamb growth during the first weeks to months of life and declines as lambs become more independent. Weaning ages vary by management and breed.

Physiology and use: Sheep are ruminants with a four-chamber stomach, well-adapted to converting forage into energy. Ewes contribute to wool production, with fleece characteristics depending on breed; some ewes are also raised for meat, especially when their offspring are marketed as lamb or mutton. In some systems, dairy-focused breeds provide milk for cheese and other products.

Nutrition and management: Diets are primarily forage-based, supplemented with hay or silage as needed. Late gestation and lactation require higher energy and protein intake. Proper shelter, parasite control, and biosecurity are important in flock management.