Sheep

These delightful little sheep make great pets. They produce a medium to fine wool, and are excellent "lawn mowers".

Olde English "Babydoll" Southdown Miniature Sheep are a rare breed of small sheep. The breed originated in Southeastern England in the 1780's and was imported to the United States in 1803. They have a teddy-bear appearance with wooly faces that always appear to be smiling. They measure less than 24" tall (shorn) at the shoulder. Many animals are as small as 18". Adults weigh 70 to 150 lbs.

These small sheep are fine pets. They are non-aggressive and are naturally polled (no horns). Because of their small size they are easy to handle. They are docile and gentle natured. They are easy for children or the enexperienced to care for. They are used in petting zoos and as visitors to schools and nursing homes. Because of their strong flocking instinct they do not do well as singles.

Babydoll sheep make good organic lawn mowers. They are good weeders and leave the ground looking well groomed. Unlike other breeds, they do not girdle the trees and shrubs. They are used in vineyards, orchards and berry farms because they will keep the weeds down but do not damage the delicate trunks or vines. Because of their size they do well in small areas. They are ideal for suburban lots and are fun living lawn ornaments.They don't wander and are easy to fence.

The animal is covered with wool over the whole body, down the hocks and knees and over most of the face. It is fine dense wool with medium crimp. It has a 19 to 29 micron average fiber diameter (grades about 55 to 60). The grease fleece weight is 4 to 7 lbs. The 12 month staple is 2 to 3 inches long. Most animals are white, but there are occasional gray, black, or spotted ones.

I've heard that the meat from the lambs is tender and tasty. If your heart could stand it, you could butcher them or sell them for meat.

They are easy to care for. They need regular hoof trimming and worming. They can be cared for like any other breed of sheep. The ewes are good mothers and often raise twins and triplets. They rarely need assistance in lambing.