Predators and internal parasites are two of the largest causes of sheep and lamb losses. St. Croix sheep are known for having a leg up on resisting the effects of parasites, but all sheep are vulnerable to predators. In the USDA’s 2020 report, 32% of losses of mature sheep are due to predators, and 40% of
all lamb losses. There are many methods for minimizing sheep losses to predators. No method is 100%
effective, but choosing the best methods for the situation will yield the best results.
Predators come in many forms – wild, feral and domesticated, 4-footed and winged, solitary and
cooperative hunters. Canines are overwhelmingly the most common predator of sheep, accounting for
47% of all predator sheep kills. Dogs are the next most common, with 34%. Bears, mountain lions, fox,
wolves, bobcats, eagles, hawks and even ravens and vultures round out the list of usual suspects for the
remaining 19% of losses.
Preventing the loss of the first sheep can be most effective in discouraging further losses. Many experts
feel that once a predator has killed and eaten sheep or lamb, it’s more likely to do so again as predators
learn from experience and from one another. Sometimes killing the predator only allows a new predator to move into the now-vacant territory. State or federal laws protect many predators so ranchers cannot legally kill them without obtaining a permit to do so.
When attacks do occur, the sheep owner rarely sees the attack occur,. But each predator may leave clues to their identity on the prey and in the area. The more the owner knows about what to look for and the earlier the signs are noted, the more useful info can be learned. New or different deterrents may be
needed to discourage that predator. Some resources are below to help with predator identification and
management.
Identifying the predators that are likely to be present in your area is a starting point for choosing cost-
effective methods of deterring them. Integrated predator management means combining the most effective means of deterrence for the predators in your area.
Predator Resources:
- Distinguishing stillborn lambs scavenged by coyotes from lambs killed by coyotes or by dogs.
- The Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management can help the livestock owner identify other
predators. - USDA/APHIS’s Wildlife Services provides information and services by state that can be accessed by calling 1- 866-4USDA (866-487-3297).
- Data on sheep predators and losses are from the USDA’s 2020 National Animal Health Survey of sheep. The next NAHMS sheep survey was conducted in 2024, and results should be released in 2025.