Sheep are the most numerous and important livestock species in the Middle East and North Africa and number around 100 million head (Table 7.5.1). The following are the most important reasons for sheep being so significant in these areas:—

Sheep are a triple purpose species producing meat, milk and wool. Their meat is the most desired in all Islamic countries, they hold a special place with the camel in the Islamic religion and are important as sacrificial animals on feast days. Most important of all, sheep will continue to survive under conditions where most other animals will die due to heat and undernutrition.