Sheep
Ovis aries
The sheep (Ovis aries) is a domesticated ruminant mammal known for its thick woolly coat, which is highly valued for textile production. Originating from the wild mouflon of Asia and Europe, sheep have been selectively bred for thousands of years for wool, meat (lamb and mutton), and milk. This adaptable species is characterized by its stocky body, cloven hooves, and distinctive curled horns in some breeds. Sheep are social animals, often forming strong flocking behaviors and depending heavily on this for protection against predators. They are ruminants, meaning they have a specialized stomach with multiple compartments that allow them to efficiently digest fibrous plant material through fermentation. Worldwide, there are over 1,000 recognized sheep breeds, each adapted to specific environments and agricultural needs, from the hardy Merino, prized for its fine fleece, to the robust Suffolk, renowned for its meat quality. Known for their gentle and docile nature, sheep contribute to various ecological and agricultural systems, playing vital roles in grassland management and sustainable farming practices.
