Karakul Sheep

Karakul Sheep

The Karakul is possibly the oldest domesticated sheep breed in the world. They are native to Central Asia’s deserts and feature open faces with fine bone structure. Their ears are pendulous and they have a thick tail, which stores extra nourishment and is similar in function to the hump of a camel.  

What do Karakuls Look Like?

Their fleece is often white, blue, tan, silver, gray or reddish-brown in color. At birth, the lambs have a thick fleece coat that is known as “Persian Lamb Fur.”  

Why Raise Karakul Sheep?

It is common for the Karakul to be double-coated and they are primarily used in wool production and are sought after by the world’s hand spinners.

Karakul Sheep Breed

The Karakul can adapt to a variety of climates and these sheep are very resilient animals with docile personalities. Ewes are excellent mothers and are known to be long-lived.

Though the Karakul sheep breed history is unknown, there is evidence of Persian Lamb Fur that dates back to 1400 B.C. They are considered a rare breed today.

Karakul Breed Information

MATURE BODY WEIGHTRam: 175-225 lbs.
Ewe: 100-150 lbs.
AVERAGE FIBER DIAMETERMicron: 25-36
USDA Wool Grade: 44’s-58’s
GREASE FLEECE WEIGHTEwe: 5-10 lbs.
YIELD80-85%
STAPLE LENGTH6-12″

To learn more about this breed, please visit the Karakul Shepherds Alliance website.