New Zealand has long been known for having more sheep than people, but that iconic ratio is slowly shrinking.
In 2024, the country had 4.5 sheep for every person. That is a far cry from the 22 sheep per person in 1982.
As wool prices fell and farming shifted to more profitable industries, New Zealand’s sheep numbers have steadily declined. Despite efforts to support the wool industry, the national flock continues to shrink, with neighboring Australia facing a similar trend.
Related Stories
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Junior Livestock Champions Grand Champion Market Steer, topping out at $320,000
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council published a joint press release regarding the advancement of legislation to delist the Mexican Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species Act.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
