The Sheep

Katahdins

Hair Sheep

Katahdin have many valuable features making them one of the most low maintenance breeds of sheep. For those uninterested in harvesting wool, the Katahdin is the perfect breed.

Katahdin are a hair sheep, shedding their coat in the spring and do not require the chore of sheering.

Their unique coat allows them to tolerate a wide range of weather from freezing, windy winters to the intense heat and humidity of East Texas summers.

LEFT: mom Sugar with her ewe lamb Honey

Parasite Resistant

Sheep are known as one the the most complicated livestock to raise as most wool sheep struggle from parasites and disease.

A primary trait selected for Katahdin is disease resistance. While there is still data being collected through NSIP to prove this statistic, the breed has proven time and again for thriving off poor pasture. Katahdin are a relatively new breed and it is the goal of every Katahdin shepherd to improve and perfect the quality of their flock.

LEFT: momma Potato enjoying the sunset

Great Mothers

Katahdins’ have high birthing rates of twins and triplets and lambs put on weight quickly and efficiently. Within 90 days lambs can put on anywhere from 50 to 75lbs depending on the season.

With strong mothering instincts, Katahdins rarely abandon their lambs and produce an ample milk supply. Supplementation for mothers is very minimal as they can maintain themselves off poor pasture.

LEFT: mom Maybelle and her ram lamb Storm

Further Reading

Katahdin Sheep

  • https://www.katahdins.org/
  • https://www.iamcountryside.com/sheep/secrets-of-raising-katahdin-sheep/
  • http://nsip.org/