Pronunciation: [jˈuːz] (IPA) 
The word "ewes" is spelled with the letters E-W-E-S. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ju:z/. The letter "e" in "ewes" is pronounced as a long "u" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /ju:/, followed by the letter "w" representing the sound /w/. The final letter "s" is pronounced as the voiceless constricted airflow /s/ sound. "Ewes" is the plural form of "ewe", a female sheep.
Ewes are female sheep, typically used for breeding and producing lambs. They are part of the genus Ovis and belong to the Bovidae family. In terms of physical appearance, ewes are relatively smaller in size compared to rams, the male counterpart of the species. They have a more feminine build with a narrower and more delicate frame.
Ewes are commonly raised for their wool and meat. Their wool is highly valued in the textile industry due to its softness and insulating properties. Additionally, their meat, known as lamb or mutton depending on the age, is a popular source of protein in many cultures around the world.
In husbandry, farmers carefully manage ewes for successful breeding. They have an estrous cycle, also known as the heat cycle, where they are sexually receptive and fertile. This cycle typically occurs once a year and is often coordinated with the appropriate season for lambing, ensuring optimal conditions for the survival of the lambs.
Ewes provide an important role in maintaining the sheep population and contributing to agricultural practices. Farmers selectively breed ewes based on desired traits such as wool quality, milk production, and overall health. They are also known for their nurturing instincts, displaying protective behavior towards their young lambs by keeping them close and providing them with milk until they are old enough to fend for themselves.
In summary, ewes are the female members of the sheep species, primarily bred for wool production, meat consumption, and their ability to reproduce and raise young lambs.
