Sunday, October 27, 2013

Multiple Characteristics Keep Katahdin Sheep Breeders Happy And Prosperous

Multiple Characteristics Keep Katahdin Sheep Breeders Happy And Prosperous



By Cornelia Reyes





To create an animal that would do well in most any area Michael Piel imported three breeds of African hair sheep and in 1957 set about breeding his idea of perfect livestock. When he crossbred them with various other varieties he came up with what many consider to be the ideal ovine specimen. These animals are now the product of Katahdin sheep breeders.



These animals are a good investment for those who are looking for commercial marketing opportunities. They produce lean, mild sweet tasting meat that is more popular with the public. As an investment they are very low maintenance and are pasture feeders with minimal supplemental feeding. The ewes have an early puberty and live long and productive lives.



The rams are aggressive breeders and can produce off spring all year long. It is not unusual for the ewes to have twins or triplets and many have quadruplets. The size of a herd can triple in one year under normal circumstances. The lambs are fully weaned at six weeks and are alert and walking shortly after birth.



The lambs grow quickly and their coats can be any color pattern. They do not require tail docking because of breeding techniques. They also do not require shearing and shed their winter coats in the spring. Since wool is not a popular product in many areas at this time and shearing costs are high this is a very desirable concept.



This breed of hair sheep is exceptionally easy to care for, docile and efficient. When properly tended they require very little attention are hardy enough to adapt well to heat and humidity. Their flocking instincts allow them to be easily controlled by man or dog.



While it may be necessary to supply shelter from extreme heat and wet weather it does not have to be much. An open sided shed or a car port is adequate and many ranchers simply plant fast growing trees in the pasture for shade. The exception to this is if you have predatory wild animals that you must protect your stock from. In an enclosed shelter the main rule would be appropriate ventilation. Too much moisture or a lack of fresh air can be harmful to the health of your flock.



If you keep the habitat area clean and sanitary and watch the nutrition of the animals you should have minimal health issues to deal with. All health issues need to have veterinarian care. Skin rashes and ring worm are fairly common and easily dealt with. There are also more serious ailments such as scrapie and sore mouth that require immediate attention. Scrapie is similar to hoof in mouth in cattle.



Whether you are looking for a means to improve the quality of your flock or want to sell the lambs for commercial use, being one of the Katahdin sheep breeders appears to be a viable option. You will be able to meet your goals for profit in many ways. They are also in demand for herding dog trainers or land owners who wish to keep foliage in check. Their non-woolly coat makes them perfect for ranchers who live in areas where the thick wool will be a detriment. This is an opportunity for profit on many levels.









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Multiple Characteristics Keep Katahdin Sheep Breeders Happy And Prosperous



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