Farm Sheep Thermal Comfort and Welfare

Sheep are adapted to temperate climates but face significant thermal stress in intensive systems, particularly during hot summers and immediately after shearing.

Key Facts

Sheep are well insulated by their fleece but can overheat in temperatures above 30C, particularly in confined spaces
Freshly shorn sheep lose their thermal protection and can suffer hypothermia in cold wet conditions within hours
Mortality from cold stress after shearing is a documented welfare and economic problem in spring-lambing systems
Shade and ventilation significantly reduce heat stress mortality and production losses during hot periods
Heat stress in pregnant ewes increases stillbirth rates and reduces lamb birth weights
Water intake in heat-stressed sheep can increase three to four times, making continuous access to clean water critical
High-density housing with poor ventilation leads to ammonia buildup that irritates respiratory tracts and eyes

Welfare Considerations

Thermal welfare in sheep requires attention to both ends of the temperature spectrum. The period immediately after shearing is a particular vulnerability window when sudden cold snaps can be fatal. Conversely, intensive summer systems without adequate shade and ventilation expose sheep to chronic heat stress. Simple interventions — weather-aware shearing scheduling, emergency shelter provision after shearing, shade structures, and water access — can substantially reduce thermal welfare problems. Breed selection also plays a role, as some breeds are more heat or cold tolerant than others.

What You Can Do

Support farms that schedule shearing with weather forecasts and provide post-shear shelter for sheep
Choose lamb and wool products from systems with documented thermal welfare management plans
Advocate for minimum shade and water access standards in sheep welfare legislation
Reduce lamb and sheep product consumption from intensive systems without adequate thermal management
Support research into heat-tolerant sheep breeds for regions experiencing climate-driven temperature increases