Sheep 101 is a collection of resources for sheep and producers and others. The resources were developed over the course of the author's 35+ year career in agricultural extension. Information is continuously reviewed and updated as necessary to make sure it is always relevant and up-to-date.
Sheep 101 was first created in 2004 as an educational resource about sheep for 4-H and FFA members, students, teachers, beginning shepherds, and others who want to learn more about the species. The site explores topics such as sheep biology, sheep products, management practices, and the importance of sheep in agriculture and to society. Information is presented in simple, easy-to-understand language and is complemented with images that help illustrate key concepts.
Sheep 201 is an beginner's guide to raising sheep, intended for people working with a wide range of breeds and production systems. It provides practical, research-based information on essential topics such as nutrition, health, reproduction, housing, and day-to-day management. While the information is broadly applicable, it should be adapted to local conditions, available breeds, management practices, and market demands. The guide is designed to support beginners while also serving as a useful reference for more experienced producers looking to refine their management strategies.
Learn about sheep and goats in a Q & A format. This section provides practical answers to common questions about sheep and goat production. Topics are organized into easy-to-navigate categories including health, nutrition, management, breeding, and marketing. This format allows producers, students, and educators to quickly find reliable information on a wide range of small ruminant issues, from feeding and disease prevention to reproductive management and selling animals or products. The goal of the section is to provide clear, research-based guidance that supports effective and profitable sheep and goat production.
These infographics are one-page factsheets designed to provide a clear overview of various topics related to sheep and/or goats. A total of 249 infographics have been organized by subject area. JPEG versions of the infographics can be found on Flickr™. You are welcome to use, share, and suggest additional topics. Ultimately, all of the infographics will be compiled into a book to create an accessible, easy-to-read resource on raising sheep and goats.
Over the years, Susan has taken numerous photographs related to sheep and goat production and marketing. The images were captured in many parts of the world. They have been uploaded to Flickr and organized into folders by subject. Because visual examples are especially helpful for illustrating management practices, facilities, breeds, and health conditions, photographs can be a valuable teaching tool for sheep and goat producers.
2026 marks the 28th year of the Maryland Small Ruminant Page (sheepandgoat.com). The website was created to serve as an information portal for sheep and goat producers, providing practical, research-based information to support flock and herd management. Since its launch in 1998, the site has undergone many updates, expansions, and design changes as new information, technologies, and production practices have emerged. The Maryland Small Ruminant Page continues to evolve and remains a work in progress, with content regularly updated and expanded to reflect current knowledge and the changing needs of the sheep and goat industry.
Susan established a Facebook page for the Maryland Small Ruminant Extension Program in 2011. She continues to manage and update the page in retirement. The primary purpose of the page is to share research-based information with sheep and goat producers and others interested in small ruminant production. New posts are made frequently to highlight educational resources, management tips, industry news, and upcoming events.
Site disclaimer
Sheep 101 is provided as an educational resource for the public. While every effort is made to keep the information current and accurate, no guarantees are made regarding its completeness or reliability. Users are responsible for assessing the accuracy and relevance of the content for their own situations. All producers, regardless of flock size, should work with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about small ruminants. In the United States, a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship is required to use antibiotics and many other medications. Producers are also encouraged to seek guidance from university extension services.
Reprint permission
Materials from Sheep 101 may be copied, downloaded, printed, and translated for educational purposes, provided the content is not altered and appropriate credit is given to Sheep 101 and its author. The materials may not be sold. Users are welcome to link to Sheep 101 web pages, documents, and images. Images are also copyrighted and may be used under the same conditions.