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Katahdin Sheep

 

The Katahdin sheep breed was the first in the United States to reach sheep industry standards of carcass quality. The average Katahdin ewe weight is 120 to 160 pounds and the ram's weight is 180 to 250. Most Katahdin ewes will have a 200% lamb crop. The Katahdin sheds its winter coat, and so does not have to be sheared. The Katahdin's hair can come in any color as the emphasis of the breed is on production rather than appearance.

 

The Katahdin's popularity has increased in recent years due to low wool prices and high shearing costs. This, combined with the fact that the Katahdin sheep breed is also resistant to parasites - a trait inherited from its St. Croix ancestors - makes the breed a highly productive, low-cost option for commercial shepherds (Wikipedia).

 

I have found the Katahdins to have strong mothering instinct, good meat production, and produce a lean, mild flavoured meat. They are a great breed for people that are new into sheep, or want to have a small flock. They are proficient grazers of brush and forbs.

 

I try to maintain a low maintenance flock. I have never had to assist in a birth with either of my breeds. The ewes lamb on grass at pasture and are rarely every jugged. I only check the sheep once a day. They mother up fast and take good care of their lambs. I maintain the best conformation and only ewes with good bags, good feet and large frame sizes.

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