Jsba.org
Title
Jacob Sheep Breeder's Association
Contact
- Jacobs Sheep Breeder Assoc.
-
- Newberg OR
- United States 97132
-
- +1.50353879
Description
The American Jacobs are an old world sheep which, unlike many other old world breeds, have not undergone improved breeding and out crossing to satisfy the commercial marketplace. They have a more primitive body shape, are slender boned and provide a flavorful, lean carcass with little external fat. The carcass yield from hanging weight to freezer is high when compared to the more improved breeds.
Due to finer bone structure and less body fat, stocking rates on pasture are higher than the modern breeds with 25% to 50% increases being reported. Ewes require less supplement feed during times of increased nutritional need and lamb easily, usually with no assistance. The lambs are up and nursing vigorously without help. Jacob ewes are included in commercial flock in England due to their hardiness, ease of lambing, strong mothering instincts. Both rams and ewes are easily kept and have a resistance to parasites and foot problems. The fleece is soft and open and light in grease, making it highly sought after by handspinners.
The Jacob is highly marketable as breeding stock. Farm gate sales of freezer lamb, tanned pelts, handspinners' fleeces, horns for walking sticks and buttons, bring the breeder financial return as well as the pleasure of seeing this handsome breed on the farm.
