374 



lonniai of A^'rlculltirc. 



[lo June, 1909. 



ROMXEY MAR81I SHEE1\ 



//. 



'. Ham, Slice p Expert. 



The Romney Marsh l)reed is gradually working into a good position, 

 and as long as a boom is not created for them, they have a good chance 

 of proving of service. In the history of all breeds of sheep there is a 

 class of breeder, usually with plenty of capital, who will take up a breed 

 with a deal of enthusiasm, but with little knowdedge of the purpose of 

 the particular breed. 



Such breeders, as a rule, keep them true enough to pedigree, especiallv 

 with regard to such points as colour of face, legs, hoofs, and nose, shape 



ROMNEY MARSH YEARLING RAM. " NEWBOLD. " 



of ears, and (where the country encourages it) nice attracti\e wool. But 

 these points are only valuable when coupled with a well made thick set 

 carcase. When a Ix)om is on there are always some breeders who offer 

 grade sheep as pure ; but these sheep are not to be thought of when wishing 

 to commence a permanent flock, or for stud work. 



Romney breeders, and others about to i)urchase, would do well 

 to consider the aim that the original breeders had in view when they 

 evolved this breed, for Romneys were bred mainK witli a \iew to being a 

 mutton breed of the best quality. At the same time ttiev w^ere to a large 

 extent a grazing sheep, having often to be kci)t on low marshv land until 

 four-tooth before being fattened. Consequent Iv the\ were bred to grow n 

 profitable fleece during this time. 



The conditions of this class of country also demanded a particularly 

 good hoofed breed, and those that .stood these conditions best and came in 

 showing a thick set sturdy frame carrying a i)rofitable fleece, and showing 

 no feet troubles, were selected and bred from. As a result of this, the 

 Romney is a particularlv hardv sheep, and where the countrv is fairly 



