Many of us, especially those living in rural areas with expansive farmland, often ask ourselves many questions regarding the farm animals we should keep in our farms. However, different farm animals will do well in different areas depending on the geographical location and weather patterns. Sheep rearing is a common practice, especially among people living in the highlands and mountainous regions. One can rear sheep for various reasons, including their numerous farm products such as wool, milk, cheese, and meat.
The following are factors to consider before rearing a sheep flock on one’s farm.
The Best Breed to Keep
Before deciding on the breed of sheep to keep it’s important to understand why one wants to keep the sheep. Various reasons include keeping them for wool, cheese, milk, meat, or just as pets. After making this decision, a farmer can start with a breed that does well in the locality through its important to consult a local extension officer who will advise on the best sheep breed to keep the area. Commercial meat and wool producers will often keep a limited variety of sheep breed to ensure consistency in their supplies’ quality.
The Available Space
The amount of available space will determine the flock’s size that can be supported on the farm. Sheep feed on pasture, meaning that they need enough space to move around when grazing. Start with a small flock if unsure how many animals the farm can hold and reduce or increase the number gradually depending on the findings.
Keeping the Sheep Safe
Like all farm animals, it’s important to consider the flock’s safety and protect them from predators. If the flock will spend most of the daytime feeding on pasture, construct a burn where they can shelter during the rainy days or at night.
