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History of Romney Sheep: The Romney breed emerged over 250 years ago in a green, soggy, wind-swept region of Kent county in southeastern England, its ancestor a hardy old breed aptly called the Romney Marsh sheep. An efficient provider of wool and meat, the Romney sailed to New Zealand, where it has since become the most numerous sheep breed. William Riddell of Monmouth, Oregon, brought the first of these sheep into the United States in 1904. Both English and New Zealand lines have contributed to the improvement of present-day Romneys in North America.
Conformation: These burly polled sheep come thickly cloaked in wool of either white or natural colors, including cream, black, brown, gray and silver. They have a blocky build, strong legs, moderately sized ears and an open, wool-free face from the eyes down. Adult Romney rams weigh 225 to 275 pounds; ewes, 150 to 200 pounds.
Special Consideration/Notes on Romney Sheep: Thanks to their Kent, England roots, Romneys adapt especially well to lush, rainy temperate climates, such as those on the West and East Coasts (to arid regions, not so well). The ewes generally lamb with ease and make good, calm mothers.
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