Sheep Welfare in Hot Weather | Animal Welfare Hub

Heat stress in sheep - recognition, prevention, and management strategies for farmers as temperatures rise globally.

Key Facts

Sheep have optimal temperature ranges of 7-25 degrees Celsius (45-77 degrees Fahrenheit)
Wool provides insulation against both cold and moderate heat but can cause overheating in extreme conditions
Shearing timing relative to hot weather is critical for sheep welfare
Shade provision dramatically reduces heat stress mortality in sheep
Pre-weaned lambs are particularly vulnerable to heat stress

Welfare Considerations

Sheep evolved in temperate and upland environments and are poorly adapted to prolonged heat. In hot conditions, they show rapid breathing, reduced grazing activity, increased water intake, and huddling in shade. Unshorn sheep in hot weather face severe welfare problems as wool prevents effective cooling. Climate change is increasing the frequency of heat events in traditional sheep farming areas, making heat stress management an increasingly critical welfare issue. Providing shade, water, and appropriate shearing timing can significantly reduce suffering.

What You Can Do

Advocate for shade requirement in sheep welfare standards
Choose lamb and wool from farmers who demonstrate heat stress management
Support research into heat-tolerant sheep breeds for warming climates
Encourage farmers to adjust shearing calendars to match local heat patterns
Support cool shelters and water access as basic welfare requirements