laThe Dartmoor fleece is classified as Lustre Long wool. A medium sized sheep (approx. 60kg), hornless, deep bodied, short legged, with well woolled head and legs. The white face should be mottled or spotted with black or grey with matching feet. The short straight legs are well covered with wool. A clip of 7-9kg can be expected with a higher yield (up to 15kg) from mature rams. Traditionally the long, curly, lustre wool was used for blankets, serge, carpets and cloth.
The wool is not coloured, and has a staple length 25-30cms with a Bradford count of 36-40.
The ewes are good milkers, capable of rearing twins. A lambing of about 140% can be expected with the heavy milking docile ewes rearing them quickly. Some clipping around the udder may be required to ensure easy access for the newly born lambs. Traditionally lambs are shorn before the first of July. Our Dartmoors are calm, placid and attractive sheep which always attract the attention of visitors. The lambs are particularly delightful. Our Dartmoors are registered with the Greyface Dartmoor sheep society. For more information visit www.greyface-dartmoor.org.uk