FAQs
Why is wool shedding a good thing?
By shedding fleece the sheep’s energy goes into producing meat and milk rather than wool.
Energy, farm costs and sheep maintenance are reduced because there is simply no need to ever shear or crutch these sheep – they shed themselves.
When and how do they shed?
Lambs are of course born with a fleece and then start to shed in Spring and by summer have fully shed, revealing a short course grass seed resistant coat. Wool grows back for warmth during the winter months and the shedding process starts again as the weather warms in Spring and Summer.
What happens to the wool?
The wool quickly disappears with birds collecting for nests , or quickly biodegrading into the ground. There is no commercial value to the wool. The wool is not good quality … instead the sheep directs its energy into meat and milk production.
Do the shedding sheep have horns?
We do not breed any horned sheep. We believe they are easier care and safer care without horns and over many decades have been very conscious to breed out all horn in our flocks.
Who do shedding sheep suit?
Australian Whites, Wiltipolls and White Dorper sheep are versatile breeds. Because they are easy to maintain and manage they are a great choice for grass control or for smaller hobby farmers.
For the serious commercial meat producer, multiple births , twins and triples are the rule. Ewes are excellent mothers. They produce a small lamb ( so easy birthing ). The Lambs grows quickly and the Ewes feed triplets and quads in the paddock. Apart from normal husbandry of vaccinating and drenching all the work related to wool is gone, immediately saving time ,money and anguish.
Australian Whites, Wiltipolls and White Dorpers are also excellent prime lamb producers and are an attractive alternative to some of the more traditional fat lamb breeds.