She had been stuck half way down the 220-foot cliffs between Whitby and Robin Hoods Bay for several weeks. Locals who gathered to take a look said the sheep seemed happy on the remote ledge and in no hurry to move.
She had earned the nickname Aretha - after the soul classic Rescue Me, which was actually sung by Fontella Bass, rather than Aretha Franklin.
RSPCA inspector Justin Le Masurier said they had been left with no choice to kill her. Sedating the animal with a tranquiliser dart could have caused her to become disoriented and fall off.
"In the interests of its welfare, attempting a rope rescue on a 200ft cliff face would be too dangerous for the animal and for any rescue personnel," he said. "She was humanely despatched, arranged by the owner."
He added: "We understand the public's concern for the animal. It is sad sometimes but we took the difficult decision as it was in the interests of the animal." Onlookers had described the ewe as looking healthy and content.
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