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Physical features
Physical features
Relatively small body size with refined bone structure; They can reach approximately 3½ feet in length. Males weigh 120-150 lbs. Females weigh 100-120 lbs.
They have open (wool free) faces and clean legs.
Both sexes can have horns, but ours do not have horns.
They were bred to easily tolerate the high temperatures and humidity of the south, thanks to their low-density wool - they are comfortable in 100°F and can acclimate to temperatures as low as -60°F.
Range and Habitat
Range and Habitat
Range – Anywhere people take them, although this breed was developed within 100 miles of the Gulf coast in the southeastern United States.
Habitat – Their habitat is domestic pastures. They are not found in the wild.
Diet: Herbivore
Diet: Herbivore
Wild – Grass
Zoo – Bermuda hay, grain, fresh browse
Lifespan
Lifespan
Wild – 12-14 years (estimated)
Zoo – 10-12 years
Reproduction
Reproduction
These sheep can breed year-round, rams as early as 4 months old.
An ewe usually gives birth once a year.
Twins occur very frequently in this species.
Conservation: Not Evaluated
Conservation: Not Evaluated
Major threats: None at this time
Interpretive Information
Interpretive Information
Gulf Coast native sheep are descended from the stock of sheep first brought to this country by Spanish settlers. They are the oldest type of sheep found in the United States.
This species is known for having a natural resistance to hoof rot and for being particularly resistant to parasites. In fact, the Florida Agriculture Department has maintained a herd since 1962 without the use of dewormers.
They may also be referred to as Florida native or Louisiana native sheep.
References
References
Reavill, C. (2000). Ovis aries. Retrieved December 13, 2004, from the Animal Diversity Web site: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Ovis_aries.html
Sheep (1983). In R. M. Nowak & J. L. Paradiso (Eds.), Walker’s Mammals of the World (4th ed., Vol. 2, pp. 1303-1306). Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press.
Updated December 2004
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