Key facts
- Average length: 147 days
- Normal range: 144 to 152 days
- Heat cycle: about every 17 days
Hair sheep (Katahdin, Dorper, St. Croix) and wool breeds have very similar gestation lengths. Ewes carrying twins or triplets tend to lamb a day or two early.
The ewe’s heat cycle is about 17 days: if she accepts the ram again around day 17, she did not settle. Energy needs rise sharply in the last third of pregnancy; thin ewes at that stage are at higher risk of pregnancy toxemia and weak lambs.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is a sheep pregnant?
Just under 5 months: 147 days on average, with a normal range of 144 to 152 days.
How many times a year can a ewe lamb?
Usually once a year, although well-managed hair sheep flocks can achieve 3 lambings in 2 years.