In the U.S. most sheep are raised west of the Mississippi. Grass, weeds and shrubs on range. Also grain and hay on farm in winter. Gestation period is five months. Life span is 13 years.
Enemies are meat-eating wild animals and dogs.
Also, the kea parrot of New Zealand sinks its sharp bill into the sheep's back and eats its flesh and fat. Can bite off grass much closer to the ground than cattle can. Can live without water for long periods. Sheep yield wool, meat and leather. Also furnish raw materials for glue, tallow, suet, soap, fertilizer, cosmetics, and catgut used in stringing tennis rackets.