Black & coloured sheep
Description
Sheep with naturally coloured wool are found occasionally in most breeds. There are two basic colour ranges: from black to pale grey, and from brown to pale cream. The conformation of the sheep and the character of their wool vary from one breed to another, as with white sheep.
Uses
A breed can be selected according to the objectives of the owner. Most breeders would probably come into the “hobby” category, with less than 50 sheep. Many woolcrafters keep a small flock of sheep with wool that suits their own handspinning or felting. It is also possible to run a commercial flock of coloured sheep. Surplus stock can be sold to the works, and natural coloured sheepskins are another potential product.
Requirements and handling
These are the same as for any sheep: adequate fences, a pen and race (virtually essential even for 2 or 3 sheep), trees or other shelter from weather extremes, enough grass at all seasons, and access to water. Sheep are much happier and easier to handle in groups (unless they have been raised as pets). Generally they are docile but caution is needed with rams, which can be unpredictable.
Care
All sheep must be
- shorn at least once a year
- drenched (dosed) for parasites
- dipped (you can use a pour-on)
- crutched to keep tail ends clean
- in some areas, treated to prevent flystrike
Other care needed will depend on local conditions, and on whether you are breeding lambs.
Purchase costs
If you are just looking for attractive lawnmowers, any healthy sheep of a breed that suits your climate will do fine. You may even be given “castoff” black sheep from a white flock.
However, if you are hoping to produce wool for sale to handcrafters you will need to select your sheep carefully from a breeder who specialises in this. Expect to pay at least $50 for a young ewe, and a good ram will be $100 and up.
A good place to see and buy quality natural coloured sheep is at one of the Black & Coloured Sheep Breeders’ Association’s sales. The North Island Sale is held in December each year, in Feilding or Hamilton. The South Island Sale is held in January in Canterbury or Southland.
Profitability
On small blocks, sheep are generally not highly profitable. With good management, they can pay their way, and coloured sheep in particular can be an absorbing interest. Top quality fleeces (especially naturally coloured) are sought after by handcrafters, and prices are much higher than for commercial wool. A very high standard is required, in wool type and in care and attention to both sheep and wool. Each fleece must be carefully prepared, and marketed individually.
Organisation
For more information about the Black and Coloured Sheep Breeders' Association of New Zealand (Inc) a, or to find your nearest branch, visit our Website: www.colouredsheep.org.nz
or contact: Barbara Allen email:
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Membership co-ordinator: Catherine Jane email:
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