rams

Rams are mature male sheep of the species Ovis aries. They are kept for breeding within flocks and are distinguished from females (ewes) and young sheep (lambs). In many breeds rams develop prominent horns, although some populations are hornless (polled).

Rams are herbivorous, ruminant mammals. Their diet consists mainly of grasses and forbs, often supplemented with hay or silage. They have a four-chamber stomach that enables microbial fermentation, allowing efficient breakdown of fibrous plant material. Water, minerals, and grazing patterns influence their nutrition and health.

Reproduction and behavior: During the breeding season, or rut, rams compete for mating rights through displays of dominance and head-to-head clashes. They influence breeding success through social interactions and, in some breeds, pheromones. Gestation in ewes lasts about 147 days, and lambing typically occurs in spring, with one or more offspring possible.

Management and economic role: Rams are often segregated from ewes outside the breeding season to control mating. They are valued for genetic traits such as growth rate, fertility, and carcass characteristics, and in wool-producing breeds they may also influence fleece quality. Crossbreeding with rams from selected lines is common to improve flock performance.

Taxonomy and distribution: Rams are the male of domestic sheep (Ovis aries), a ruminant in the family Bovidae, order Artiodactyla. Domestic sheep have been kept for thousands of years and are now found worldwide, contributing to meat, wool, and other products in various agricultural systems.