Panama Sheep

Panama Sheep

The Panama sheep breed originated in the 1990’s in Idaho and was the product of work by private breeders. The Panama breed is a cross between Lincoln ewes and rams which were Rambouillet. After approximately five years of crossbreeding, the breed was established and mating between Panamas was all that was required to maintain the breed.

Why Raise Panama Sheep?

The Panama is a resilient breed of sheep which can live in a variety of conditions, though the breed is known to thrive in areas which offer plenty of feed.

With an appearance similar to that of the Columbia breed, the Panama is a mid-sized animal – smaller than the Columbia (one of the largest sheep breeds).

The Panama breed as it is known today possesses a thick, heavy wool fleece that is of medium-grade and tends to be long in length (staple).  

Panama sheep are typically highly valued for their wool production – a successful and dynamic cross of two prized wool breeds.

Panama Breed Information

MATURE BODY WEIGHTRam: 250-280 lbs.
Ewe: 180-210 lbs.
AVERAGE FIBER DIAMETERMicron: 25-30
USDA Wool Grade: 50’s-58’s
GREASE FLEECE WEIGHTEwe: 13-15 lbs.
YIELD45-55%
STAPLE LENGTH3-5″

Photo credit: Dave Casebolt, University of Idaho