Difference Between Lamb and Sheep

Difference Between Lamb and Sheep: Lamb and sheep are two terms that are often used interchangeably to describe the same animal, hence there is often confusion when talking and reading about them. However, there are some key biological differences between the two that we will understand in this article.

Lamb vs Sheep

Sheep

Sheep are domestic herbivorous animals and belong to the Bovidae family. They are usually bred for wool, milk, and meat and can be found all over the world. There are many different breeds of sheep, each with unique characteristics, some are domesticated for milk and food products while others are reared for meat-based products.

Sheep are social animals, they live in herds known as flocks. They are herbivores, and eat plants such as grass and hay. Sheep are also known for their excellent senses of hearing and smell, which enables the flock to detect predators.

Sheep have been domesticated by humans for a long time now, there is evidence of a connection between humans with this animal in ancient civilizations.  Popular domestic breeds include Merino, Suffolk, and Cheviot sheep. There are many wild breeds, which can not be domesticated as well, examples of wild sheep include Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, blue sheep and antelope, and ibex.

Lamb

Lambs are younger sheep, usually less than a year old. Lambs are smaller and lighter than adult sheep, with an average weight of around 25-40 kg. Known for their playful and energetic attitude, they are often seen running through fields. Lambs are also prone to disease and injury and require special attention.

Development from Lamb to Sheep

Lambs go through several stages of development before they become adult sheep. At around six to eight months of age, female lambs will reach sexual maturity and become capable of breeding. Male lambs (known as ram lambs) reach sexual maturity around six to twelve months of age.

Usage of Lamb and Sheep

1. Wool: The commodity for which sheep are best known is wool. It is commonly used in knitwear garments such as socks, jumpers, costumes, and suits.
2. Meat: Meat is the most cherished product that we get from sheep. Meat is an essential component of our diets and many of the crucial vitamins and nutrients we need for healthy living are provided to us by lambs and mutton.
3. Lanolin: Raw wool contains grease or lanolin of 10% to 25%, which is recovered during the scouring process. A highly complex combination of esters, alcohols, and fatty acids, lanolin is used in adhesive tape, printing inks, engine oils, and automotive lubrication. In cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, lanolin is also used. Lanolin is used in nearly all cosmetics and beauty aids, including lipsticks, mascara, lotions, shampoos, and hair conditioners.
4. Skins: After slaughter, sheepskins are eliminated from the carcasses. They are treated and made into soft leather in a process called tanning. For making the chamois cloth with which we wash our cars, sheepskin is commonly used.
5. Dairy: Sheep cheese makes up about 1.3% of the world’s production of cheese.

Key Differences Between Lamb and Sheep

Feature	Lamb	Sheep
Age	Less than 1 year.	Over 1 year.
Reproduction	Too young to reproduce	Capable of breeding
Diet	High protein and energy diet	Grass and hay
Size	Smaller and lighter (25-35 kgs)	Larger and heavier (60-90 kgs)
Behavior	Playful and energetic	More sedentary
Vulnerability	Require more care and attention	More self-sufficient

Conclusion

Although the terms “lamb” and “sheep” are frequently used interchangeably, there are important natural differences between the two. Lambs are younger, smaller, and more active than adult sheep and require further care and attention. Understanding these differences can help farmers to provide better care for and appreciate these amazing animals.