Out of all the breeds of sheep that are used for wool production, the Corriedale sheep breed is by far the oldest. This storied breed originated as the product of a cross between the Lincoln and Merino sheep and the breed was developed in New Zealand and Australia. In 1914, the Corriedale was introduced to the U.S.
Why Raise Corriedales?
Valued for both their wool and their meat production, Corriedales possess a thick fleece which comes in high quantities and is rated as medium to fine.
Corriedale wool is also a desirable length (staple) and is quite soft in comparison to the wool of many other breeds – a trait inherited from its Merino ancestors.
Many hand spinners prefer to use Corriedale wool because of its unique combination of desirable qualities.
The carcasses of Corriedale lambs are high quality the fact that this dual purpose breed produces both high quality meat and wool makes it a popular choice for shepherds who’d like to maximize production.
The Corriedale breed has a white face with black points (hooves and nose) and possesses a medium sized body.
Corriedale Sheep Breed Information
| MATURE BODY WEIGHT | Ram: 220-275 lbs. Ewe: 150-200 lbs. |
| AVERAGE FIBER DIAMETER | Micron: 25-31 USDA Wool Grade: 50’s-58’s |
| GREASE FLEECE WEIGHT | Ewe: 10-15 lbs. |
| YIELD | 50-60% |
| STAPLE LENGTH | 3 1/2 – 6″ |