Thursday, January 12, 2012

Double Set of Horns

annetteleduff has added a photo to the pool:

Double Set of Horns

Best seen on black: press L to view.

These sheep are a very ancient breed called Jacob Sheep. They are polycerate, meaning multiple horns. They usually have 4 or 6 horns, but sometimes an odd number. Their specific origins are not proven (possibly Syria), but found now throughout the world. This particular breed are different than other spotted (or pied) sheep because they have a medium fine wool and no outer coat. Other primitive breeds have a harder outer coat and fine inner one. The breed is a good value for a farmer because they are generally healthy with a good immune system, birth and mother lambs well; the body has lighter bones, less fat and the wool and horns are marketable. Some that appear to be Jacob Sheep are crossbred but these pictured are purebred.



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