Australian White (sheep)

Australian White is a large, white breed of Australian meat sheep which was developed for Australian conditions. The Australian White sheep are a stabilised composite haired meat breed comprising White Dorper, Van Rooy, Poll Dorset and Texel genetics.

History

Work commenced on a breeding program by the Highveld White Dorper and Van Rooy sheep stud and the Tattykeel stud. Their aim was to produce a unique Australian white, shedding sheep breed to quickly produce large framed, heavy lamb carcases.

Additionally, walking or mobility ability, good fertility and mothering instincts in the ewes and hardy lambs with good growth weights were required traits to be incorporated into the breed.[1]

In 2011 the Australian White sheep breed was shown at the Sydney Royal Easter Show for the first time.

References

  1. ^ "Australian White Sheep". The Australian White Sheep Breeders’ Association of Australia. http://www.tattykeel.com.au/Breeds/AustralianWhite/AustralianWhiteDevelopment/tabid/1305/Default.aspx. Retrieved 4 May 2011.