The main breeds of sheep we raise at Sheepy Valley are Horned Dorsets, and Romneys.
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| Horned dorest lamb eating grain |
Horned Dorsets are a rare breed, noted for producing high-quality
milk in addition to excellent wool and meat. Both the ewes and the rams have horns. The
Dorset is thought to have originated in Spain, and is considered a large breed.
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| Romneys |
Romneys are noted for their long, lustrous fleece, highly desired by
handspinners. Their fleece, which can weigh up to 10 lbs., is often white, but can include
natural brown, silver and charcoal colors. The Romney is a very common breed, often raised
in New Zealand.
At Sheepy Valley, we usually breed our sheep so that they lamb in both the spring and
fall. We own registered rams for each of the above breeds. Our newest ram, a Horned
Dorset, was brought from Virginia, as this breed is not common in the U.S.
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| Early spring lambs |
The average ewe has twins, while single births and triplets are less common. The
new lambs are with their mothers for two or three months, before we separate them to be
raised for replacement ewes, 4-H projects, or meat. Lambs are usually ready for butchering
at 100 lbs., roughly four to six months of age.
All of our sheep are sheared in March, and the Romneys are often sheared again in the
fall. Our shearer comes from Pennsylvania, and we invite many friends and neighbors on
shearing day--it's fun to watch, and handspinners come by to choose fresh fleeces.
Our sheep produce wool, meat, lambs and lots of manure to make
our garden grow. Take a look at each of the breeds to the right. |
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At various times we have a limited
number of registered Horned Dorset and Romney ewes for sale. Occasionally, we also have
registered rams for sale. Take a look at a photo of each breed below.
- Horned Dorset
- Romney
In addition, we sell lambs to children and teenagers interested in raising a lamb for a
4-H project, or any other activity. Our lambs have been shown successfully at local fairs,
and have won many ribbons for their young owners.
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| Horned Dorset ewe |
Lastly, we sell meat for your freezer, which is processed at a federally
inspected facility. We can sell you an entire lamb dressed and packaged, or individual
cuts of meat. Meat can be picked up at the farm, or delivered locally.
If you are interested in any of the above--ewes, rams, lambs or meat, please contact us. |
