How long is a sheep pregnant?
Ewes carry for about 147 days, with a normal range of about 142 to 152. Early-maturing meat breeds tend toward the short end, and fine-wool breeds toward the long end.
Lambing date = breeding date + 147 days
When a ram runs with ewes for a full cycle, the first lambs usually arrive about 142 days after the ram goes in, and lambing spreads over 17 days (one heat cycle) or more. Raddle or crayon marks on the ram's harness let you record each ewe's breeding date.
| Day | Management |
|---|---|
| 45 to 90 | Scan for singles, twins and triplets to set feeding groups |
| 105 to 147 | Raise energy for multiples to prevent pregnancy toxemia |
| About 120 | Clostridial booster |
Frequently asked questions
How long are sheep pregnant?
About 147 days, ranging from roughly 142 to 152.
When does lambing start after the ram goes in?
Usually about 142 days later, lasting at least one 17-day heat cycle.
How do I know which ewes were bred?
Fit the ram with a marking harness and change the crayon color every 17 days.
Reference charts
More gestation calculators
Cow Gestation Calculator
Calving date by breed, with the normal window.
Horse Gestation Calculator
Foaling date with the 320 to 370 day window.
Goat Gestation Calculator
Kidding date for dairy, meat and pygmy goats.
Dog Pregnancy Calculator
Whelping date with week-by-week milestones.
Cat Pregnancy Calculator
Kitten due date and stages of cat pregnancy.
Rabbit Gestation Calculator
Kindling date and nest box date.