Southdown - SOLD OUT

  
The Southdown is a small dual purpose sheep which were developed in Sussex England during the late 1700 and early 1800s'. Today it is raised in many parts of
the world. It has evolved into two sub breeds: the Southdown raised by commercial growers today is somewhat larger than the "traditional" Southdown of
years past. The "Baby Doll" Southdowns on the other hand, have been selected for small size and "cuteness" by a small number of hobby breeders.

The Southdown is best suited for farm flock production. It is a medium to small sized breed with a gray to mousebrown face and lower legs and is polled (hornless). Southdown are an early maturing breed with good lambing ability and average milk production. They excel in a cross breeding program in their ability to produce meaty lamb carcasses at light weights. The Southdown is
adaptable to varied and wet climates.

Mature weights for Southdown rams range in weight from 190 to 230 pounds (86-104 kg), ewes are slightly smaller
and weigh from 130 to 180 pounds (59-81 kg). Fleece weights from mature ewe are between five and eight pounds (2.25-3.6 kg) with a yield of 40 to 55 percent. The fleeces are considered medium wool type with a fiber diameter of 23.5 to 29.0 microns and a numerical count of 54 to 60. The staple length of Southdown fleece ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 inches (4-6 cm). sheep.