These plants can cause immediate death to the sheep if they are consumed in toxic quantities, can cause skin reactions when the animal is exposed to sunlight, nervous system disorders, fetal deformity and abortion, or digestive problems. Hungry sheep are more likely to consume toxic quantities of these plants, particularly if there is a shortage of more palatable plants growing in the pasture. Sheep and other ruminants can also suffer from nitrate poisoning by consuming forage under certain conditions. Using Sheep to Control Weeds Sheep are an effective biological weed management tool. Sheep are adapted to eating a variety of types of plants and can be conditioned to eat weeds that are usually less palatable to most livestock.
Sheep can also eat some weeds that are toxic to cattle and other livestock without ill effect.
Last updated Tuesday, November 24, 1998.