The Coopworth sheep breed originated in New Zealand. This breed was developed by crossing Romney and Border Leicester sheep during the 1950’s and 1960’s and the breed was introduced to the United States in the later part of the 1970’s.
What Do Coopworth Sheep Look Like?
Coopworths grow to be average size and are known for having a white face and (mostly) bare legs, though natural colored Coopworths are also found around the world.
Several wool styles are acceptable within the Coopworth breed, though breed characteristics state that the fleece should be uniform on the body of any one animal and the crimp should be well-defined.
The Coopworth breed description also states that if there is wool on the legs there’s usually very little.
The head, face and body-type of Coopworth sheep closely resembles that of the Romney – the main difference is a slightly longer nose. Romney sheep tend to have slightly more wool around their face and ears as well.
Coopworth also tend to be slightly larger than Romneys – a trait inherited from their Border Leicester ancestors.
Why Raise Coopworths?
Coopworth sheep are known as being a breed which lambs easily and the ewes are typically excellent mothers.
Coopworth wool is excellent: long in length, lustrous, and quite thick.
Today the Coopworth is a popular breed, raised primarily for wool. They can be found throughout the U.S., Australia, Europe, and New Zealand.
Coopworth Sheep Breed Information
MATURE BODY WEIGHT | Ram: 175-275 lbs. Ewe: 140-175 lbs. |
AVERAGE FIBER DIAMETER | Micron: 30-36 USDA Wool Grade: 44’s-50’s |
GREASE FLEECE WEIGHT | Ewe: 12-18 lb |
YIELD | 50-65% |
STAPLE LENGTH | 5-8″ |
To learn more about this breed or to find a local breeder, visit the American Coopworth Registry website.