Sheep
Barbados
It is likely this breed originated in
Africa, it has been developed by
the people of the Caribbean Island
of Barbados and is now
considered a national treasure by
this island nation. It is a hair
sheep and the main purpose for
this breed is meat production and
training of herding dogs. This
breed is known for its tolerance to heat. They breed year round and are
resistant to disease and parasites.
Katahdin
Another hair sheep, the Katahdin
was developed in the United
States with a heavy emphasis on
carcass production. They are
known for a large percentage of
twin births and parasite resistance.
Dorper
Another hair sheep breed,
developed in South Africa for the
purpose of fast growth and
hardiness in arid areas. This early
maturing sheep is said to reach 79
in 100 days.
Suffolk
Is a breed of medium wool, dark-
faced sheep developed in England
during the years 1800 to 1850 by
mating Norfolk horned ewes with
Southdown rams. Suffolks are
prolific , early maturing sheep with
excellent mutton carcasses. They
are energetic, and the whole
carriage is alert, showing stamina
and quality.
California Red Sheep
The California Red Sheep is born a
mahogany red and wool areas
change to oatmeal with soft red
hairs. Developed in the early
1970s, from a project of Dr. Glenn
Spurlock of Davis, California, which
he hoped would create a larger
carcass on hair sheep by crossing
Tunis sheep and Barbados Blackbelly sheep. He and other breeders liked
the calm disposition, all season breeding, easy lambing and mother
characteristics and continued to develop the breed. Over the years,
breeders have found that the breed has outstanding tolerance for both
heat and cold. The California Red is a multi–purpose breed with excellent
meat characteristics, beautiful wool, and home milking qualities.