Domestic Sheep Predation

Domestic Sheep Predation

Other than parasites and disease, predation is a threat to sheep health and thereby the profitability of sheep raising. Sheep have very little ability to defend themselves, even when compared with other prey species kept as livestock. Even if sheep are not directly bitten or survive an attack, they may die from panic or from injuries sustained. However, the impact of predation varies dramatically with region. In Africa, Australia, the Americas, and parts of Europe and Asia predators can be a serious problem. In contrast, some nations are virtually devoid of sheep predators. Many islands that are known for extensive sheep husbandry are suitable largely because of their predator-free status. Worldwide, canids—including the domestic dog—are responsible for the majority of sheep deaths. Other animals that occasionally prey on sheep include: felines, bears, birds of prey, ravens, feral hogs and hyenas. Sheep deaths have even been attributed to cryptids such as the Chupacabra, big cats in Britain and the Drekavac.