Merino Sheep

The Merino sheep is one of the oldest and most influential  breed of sheep in the world. Many well known breeds of sheep such as the Cormo, Corriedale and Rambouillet, are formed from the Merino breed. They are prized for the superfine wool, which is considered to be the softest and finest of any breed of sheep. Most Merino ewes are polled, with the rams having large spiraling horns.

Merino sheep were raised and own by Spanish Nobility, and were considered to be so valuble that it was a crime punishable by death to export them from Spain. It wasn't until around 1765 that some were exported  as gifts to the king of France. He then crossed them with some of his own sheep, creating the Rambouillet. Today there are many different types of Merino including Delaine, Australian, German, Polled and Mutton Merinos.

The fleece is very soft and finely crimped, with a staple length of 2.5 - 4 inches. It typically weighs 10-30lbs, depending on the size of the sheep, and is shorn once a year. Merino fleece tends to be slightly more greasy, sometimes being up to 20% lanolin.

We just started with Merinos this past spring, when some friends of ours gave us two Merino ewes (pictured above) - one white, one dark brown. We enjoyed them so much that we decided on buying a ram and starting our own flock. So this October we purchased Oleos, a beautiful chocolate colored Merino ram.

Unfortunately Marshmallow (our lovely white ewe) passed away soon after we got her, so now we are down to the two chocolate Merinos - Oleos and Muffin

Due to recent need to downsize our numbers, they are both for sale to a good home. Right now we are asking $150 each. Email for more info or to schedule a visit!