Tunis Sheep Breed Information, History and Facts
The Tunis sheep breed is a breed of sheep which originated in the country of Tunisia in Northern Africa. This unique-looking breed was first introduced to the United States in 1799 and barely survived the American Civil War. The Tunis is one of the oldest breeds of sheep in the world and it is believed that Tunis sheep have been around since before the dawn of Christianity. They are average in size and feature reddish-brown legs and faces with ears that are pendulous. Though smaller than the Suffolk (and with different color), the appearance of Tunis sheep is otherwise similar to this large meat breed. The head and legs of Tunis sheep are free of wool and their tails are fatter than many other breeds - a trait some attribute to their African heritage (where water was rare). This breed is known for its strong mothering instinct and ewes are known to produce ample milk to raise multiple lambs. Many consider Tunis sheep fleece to be one of the most valuable of all the meat breeds listed here, though the Tunis is first and foremost a breed raised for meat production. The Tunis sheep breed is not as popular in the U.S. today, but there are small pockets around the country where Tunis breeders are concentrated and these breeders are very enthusiastic about raising Tunis sheep.
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Tunis Sheep Breed Information
Mature Body Weight
Ram: 175-225 pounds Ewe: 130-160 pounds Average Fiber Diameter Micron 26-31 USDA Wool Grade 50's-58's Grease Fleece Weight 8-12 pounds Staple Length ~4 inches |
