Romney (sheep)
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The Romney, also called Romney Marsh, are an average size breed of British Longwool sheep originating in Romney Marsh, Kent.
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[edit] Origins
The Marsh country of that district was at the time, rather inhospitable sheep country. The only reason that sheep farming was a success was because of the outstanding hardiness and strength of constitution of the Romney Marsh Sheep[citation needed]. Romneys first appeared in damp low lying, British marsh country. They have fewer foot rot problems under wet conditions than most other breeds of sheep due to their strong and hard hooves.
[edit] Characteristics
Although classed as dual purpose, the Romney is especially known for its heavy fleece which is generally lustrous and lengthy with a medium to strong quality. They tend to be seasonal breeders, and generally lamb in mid spring. Romney ewes are exceptionally hardy and excellent mothers. New Zealand breeders are well known for their excellent Romneys and they have exported their bloodlines to the USA and even back to the UK.
[edit] Appearance
The Romney Sheep has a wide, hornless head, and large, thick ears with an even covering of wool. They have bright, prominent eyes and a broad face with little wool around the eyes. The muzzle is covered in kemp, short hair that does not accept dye. Their neck should be long and should sit square on their shoulders. The Romney is also known for their black points- they must have a black nose, and black hooves. Romneys have an average crimp of 30-35 microns. This wool is ideal for felting.
[edit] Romney interest
Interest in Romneys has gone down significantly. This is particularly noticable in New Zealand. There was a time where Romneys were the most prominent breed of sheep in the nation but now less than a third of the sheep industry in New Zealand is dedicated to them[1].
[edit] See also
[edit] Footnotes
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