Sheep and cattle populations in England have hit their lowest levels since Defra began its annual census, according to the latest figures.

As of June 2024, the English sheep flock saw a 4.3% year-on-year decline, equating to a reduction of 620,000 animals.

This brings the total sheep population down to 13.8 million, based on Defra's annual livestock survey, which is published each June.

The survey also highlights a fall in the cattle population, now at 5 million, marking a 2% drop from the previous year and the lowest figure recorded.

The decline in sheep numbers was primarily driven by a 5.6% reduction (390,000 head) in the breeding flock.

Decreases were also noted in the ‘other sheep and lambs’ category (-3.1%), which includes lambs under one year old, rams, and other sheep aged one year or older.

Of particular significance was the 11% drop in ewes intended for first-time breeding, likely influenced by the slaughter of ewe lambs and shearlings in the spring, spurred by market conditions.

The total female breeding flock now stands at 660,000, the lowest since 2011. Consequently, the lamb market outlook predicts a reduced lamb crop for the 2024-25 season.

Despite steady prices raising questions about stock retention, Defra’s figures show a 3.5% decrease in lambs under one year old.

For cattle, tighter margins and strong beef prices have likely encouraged culling.

The breeding herd declined by 2.2% to 1.7 million, with the dairy breeding herd seeing a slight drop of 0.6%.

The beef breeding herd drove the decline, falling by 5.1%, which accounts for 32,000 animals, according to Defra.

Although male cattle over two years old increased, total male cattle numbers fell by 2.6%.