Age: According to the USDA APHIS Sheep report (2011), which reports data for 2001 and 2011, age is the #1 reason for culling sheep in the United States. Ewes are most productive between 3-6 years of age. Data from the western sheep flocks show that the average culling age of a ewe is 5-6 years of age.

What age are lambs culled?

Lambs are sent to slaughter at the very young age of 10 weeks to one year – the average age of death is six to seven months, even though they could live up to 12 years old – that's just 1/24th of their natural life expectancy.

What is cull lamb?

Culling is the practice of selling off animals that you no longer want to or no longer can keep. If you have sheep as a hobby, aesthetic reasons may be more important to you. ... Many times both economics and aesthetics play a part in your decision to sell sheep.