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bar 6 diamond ranch
Shetland Sheep Information |
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Shetland Sheep are an extremely small sheep. The rams can weigh from 90 to 125 pounds; they usually have beautiful spiral horns. The ewes range in size from 75 to 100 pounds –and are typically polled, although horns are not disqualified in the registry. Due to the primitive nature of this breed, the lamb tails do not require docking. Shetlands are nimble, thrifty and fine-boned. Since the Shetlands developed in harsh rigid climates, weaker bloodlines died out. The breed learned to survive on a meager diet and so developed a natural hardiness, with easy lambing. They adapt well to changes and are known for their longevity. The Shetland Sheep are much easier to care for than many of the newer commercial breeds. The Shetland wool is renowned the world over, with its fine soft wool ranging from 23-31 Microns. The Shetland breed is known for its wide variety of colors and markings. The NASSA recognizes 11 different color and 30 marking patterns. The colors range from the “silver”/ “grays”/“blacks” variety that is white to silvery gray to coal black and the “brown” variety ranging from light champagne to a dark brown/black color. The Colors of the Shetlands are as follows:
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Shetland Sheep fleece types quoted directly from the NASSA Website. There are 3 basic Shetland fleece types recognized and accepted in North America: Kindly/Single-Coated: Extremely soft and downy, usually very crimpy and dense. Roos nicely if caught in time. Short staple, typically 2 to 4 inches in length. Has a tendency to collect debris, but this can be easily removed through the use of the combing process during fiber preparation. Ideal for the softest, next-to-the-skin garments such as baby clothes. Longish and Wavy: Most typically seen. Fleece lengths are normally in the 4 to 6 inch range, with a slight "wispiness" on the ends of each lock. The fleece has a very open quality with the ends of each lock well-closed. Spins very easily. Nice for worsted wool applications, as in fine woven fabrics or knitwear with well-defined patterns that must be retained, as in Fair Isle sweaters. Beaver/Double-Coated: Long and luxurious. Fleece lengths are usually in the 6 to 10 inch and even longer range. The ideal double coat has well-defined separate coats that can be readily separated. The outer coat is hair like, while the undercoat is soft and downy. The two coats may be spun separately or together. The outer coats serves as a protective layer against harsher weather. This is the most versatile fleece.
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