Southdown Sheep Breed Information, History and Facts
The Southdown sheep breed is one of the most popular and oldest breeds of sheep. The breed was originally developed in England and were brought to the United States in 1803. Southdowns are small to average in size and feature wooly legs with faces with light points that are white to light brown in color. Southdowns are a submissive breed and are ideal for young children because they are docile, smaller in stature and easy to manage. A popular choice for first-time shepherds, the Southdown is one of the most common breeds for 4-H sheep projects because they are shown slick-shorn, requiring minimal work and preparation for young children prior to the show. Southdown lambs mature at a quick rate and can thrive in a variety of climates. This breed is known for valuable carcasses which are light in weight and muscular. Southdowns are often raised for meat production and are often excellent mothers and good at caring for their young. This breed produces medium wool fleece, but the primary focus of those raising Southdown sheep is on their meat production.
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Southdown Sheep Breed Information
Mature Body Weight
Ram: 180-230 pounds Ewe: 120-180 pounds Average Fiber Diameter Micron 24-29 USDA Wool Grade 54's-60's Grease Fleece Weight 5-8 pounds Staple Length 2-3 inches |
