Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Native and Western Ewes
In the areas of the country where sheep are raised most commonly, some
sheep are classifi ed as native and some as western, or range, sheep. In reality
these terms have little signifi cance to you as a shepherd, but you may hear
people use them from time to time. The terms don't necessarily refer to a
specifi c breed — or even a specifi c cross — but they refer to a “type.” Native
sheep are raised primarily for meat and are large, prolifi c, and usually black
faced. Western sheep are usually fi ne-wool sheep or are a cross of fi ne-wool
and long-wool breeds. Fine-wool sheep were often preferred on the western
ranges, not for their wool but for their strong fl ocking instinct.
Buying Sheep
If you are new to sheep, then read the rest of this topic before purchasing your
fi rst sheep. Studying before buying will save you money, time, aggravation,
and possibly the lives of your sheep! But if you are ready to buy, here are some
things to keep in mind.
Unless you plan to have only a few sheep, try to obtain ewes with similar
breeding for your fi rst foray into shepherding. Not only will these ewes share
traits such as temperament, breeding period, gestation period, and maturity
dates, they'll also produce lambs of similar quality that mature at about the
same time, which will enhance the marketability of your lambs.
If you don't have a preference for a particular breed, consider the predomi-
nant one in your area. It's likely to be well suited to the climate, and buy-
ing close to home cuts down on shipping costs and a stressful ride for the
animals.
You can get replacement rams more easily, even trading with other breeders
nearby, after you have used yours for a while and want to avoid inbreeding.
Until you become an experienced shepherd, it may be best to seek a men-
tor who can help evaluate the animals before you buy. Another shepherd, or
a veterinarian, can help you evaluate the conformation and general health of
the animals you're considering, and paying for such a consultation actually
can save lots of money down the road.
If you're considering buying sheep, think seriously about the timing of your
purchase. It's best to buy at a period when the animals aren't going to have to
do anything too signifi cant right after they arrive on your farm. Moving to a
new home is as unpleasant for them as it is for you, and they take some time
to settle in.
 
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search