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Katahdins are hardy, adaptable, low maintenance sheep that produce superior lamb crops and lean, meaty carcasses. They do not produce a fleece and therefore do not require shearing. They are medium sized and efficient, bred for utility and for production in a variety of management systems. Ewes have exceptional mothering ability and lamb easily; lambs are born vigorous and alert. The breed is ideal for pasture lambing and grass/forage-based management systems.
Adaptability: Katahdins have demonstrated wide adaptability. They were derived from breeds that originated in the Caribbean and British Islands, and the state of Maine was their original home. In cold weather, they grow a very thick winter coat which then sheds during warm seasons. Their smooth hair coat and other adaptive characteristics allow them to tolerate heat and humidity well. Katahdins are also significantly more tolerant of internal and external parasites than woolen sheep, and if managed carefully require only minimal parasite treatment.
Temperament: Katahdins are docile so are easily handled. They exhibit moderate flocking instinct.
Size: Live weight of a mature ewe in good condition usually ranges from 125 to 185 pounds; a mature ram will weigh 180 to 250 pounds. Average birth weight of twins is about 8 pounds.
Reproduction: Ewes and rams exhibit early puberty and generally have a long productive life. Mature ewes usually have twins, occasionally producing triplets or quadruplets. A well-managed and selected flock should produce a 200% lamb crop. Rams are aggressive breeders, generally fertile year round, and can settle a large number of ewes in the first cycle of exposure. With selection a flock can consistently lamb throughout the year.
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Salt Creek Sheep |
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Dorper Sheep are hardy and highly adaptable and do well in harsh, extensive conditions as well as in more intensive operations. The Dorper has a white body with a black head. A Dorper should shed its covering each summer. Shedding ability is a trait that should be selected for in your breeding stock. Adaptability: Dorpers are excellent converters of a wide range of forage types and they excel in grazing or weed control operations. Because of their Blackhead Persian origin, Dorpers have natural tolerance to high temperatures and heavy insect populations. They are productive in areas where other breeds barely survive. Studies indicate Dorper Sheep are better able to deal with a parasite burden than many other breeds. Temperament: Dorpers are docile so are easily handled. They exhibit moderate flocking instinct. Size: Mature rams typically average around 230 pounds. Mature ewes range between 180-210 lbs. However, one should not be obsessed with mature weights. Feed efficiency is more important than mature weight. The Dorper breeds excel at producing fast growing lambs.
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