Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

What is a castrated male sheep called?

1. Buck

2. Wether

3. Ram

4. Ewe

The correct answer is: Wether

A castrated male sheep is referred to as a wether. This terminology is significant in livestock management and breeding, as it helps differentiate between the roles and classifications of sheep based on their reproductive status. In the case of sheep, the term "wether" specifically designates a male that has undergone castration, which is a common practice to control breeding and improve meat quality. Wethers are often used in various agricultural contexts, including for grazing, companionship, or as part of a herd for managing ewes and rams. The other terms in the list refer to different types of sheep: a buck is used generally for male goats, while a ram is an uncastrated male sheep, and a ewe is a female sheep. Understanding these distinctions is essential in livestock management and breeding practices.