The Cheviot sheep breed is an alert, active breed that features a white face and compact body. This breed is most popular in England, Scotland, and Wales.
What do Cheviot Sheep Look Like?
Cheviots have bare heads and legs, ears which stand erect and distinctive “roman” noses (which are much more pronounced in rams than in Cheviot ewes).
Where do Cheviot Sheep Live?
The Cheviot breed is very popular in the United Kingdom, Wales, and Scotland. While you can find Cheviots in New Zealand, Australia and the United States, the breed is not quite as popular in these countries.
History of the Cheviot Breed
In 1838 the first Cheviots were imported to the United States where they have thrived ever since.
This breed is named after the hills found near the borders of Scotland in the northern area of Northumberland, England – a beautiful corner of the world where this breed first became popular.
Why Raise Cheviots?
Cheviot sheep are small, and they are a breed primarily raised for meat. Cheviots produce well-muscled carcasses and grow at a moderate pace.
Cheviots also produce wool, though not as much (and not as high quality) as sheep breeds raised primarily for their wool production.
Farmers like Cheviots because they can live in a wide range of climates as well as in areas that are scarce in feed. These sheep are hardy animals with sturdy, muscular frames.
The Cheviot sheep breed makes an excellent choice for young children enrolled in 4-H – a popular breed of sheep for show due to their smaller size and alert nature. These sheep are typically quite wired, however. They’re a high energy breed, so your child should plan to spend extra time training his or her Cheviot before entering the show ring for the first time.
Cheviot Breed Information
Mature Body Weight | Ram: 160 – 200 pounds Ewe: 120 – 160 pounds |
Average Fiber Diameter | Micron 27 – 33 USDA Wool Grade 46’s – 56’s |
Grease Fleece Weight | 5 – 8 pounds |
Wool Staple Length | 2.5 – 4 inches |
Visit the American Cheviot Sheep Society website for more information or to find a Cheviot breeder near you.