1. Texas: Leading in both sheep and lamb production, Texas is home to the largest sheep population in the US.
2. California: Known for its vast grazing lands, California produces significant amounts of both sheep and lambs.
3. Wyoming: Renowned for its sheep ranching industry, Wyoming consistently ranks among the top sheep producing states.
4. Colorado: With its wide-open spaces and favorable climate, Colorado supports a substantial sheep industry.
5. Utah: Utah's agricultural sector is strong, with sheep production playing a significant role in its economy.
Other states with notable sheep populations include:
* Montana
* Idaho
* Oregon
* New Mexico
* Arizona
It's important to note that sheep production can fluctuate from year to year due to factors like weather conditions, market demand, and disease outbreaks.