376 THE BREEDS OF LIVE-STOCK 



The fleece in a well-kept matured ram should average 

 twelve to eighteen pounds and in the matured ewe about 

 nine to fifteen pounds. 



Much may be said in praise of the quality of Delaine 

 mutton. It easily leads in the Merino families. The 

 wethers mature rather quickly, and sell at a good price. 



The Delaine Merino has been used to good advantage 

 in crossing to produce better shearing qualities without 

 detriment to the mutton qualities. This result has fre- 

 quently been secured on the western ranges. 



462. Distribution. Among breeds of Merinos, the 

 Delaine is growing in popularity. It is found in New 

 York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Iowa and in ad- 

 joining states. For use on the ranges, the Delaines are 

 finding increasing favor, especially where the pasturage 

 is good. The Black-top Spanish Merino is especially 

 numerous in parts of Pennsylvania where it was devel- 

 oped. They are less hardy than the American Merino. 



463. Organizations and records. At present, the 

 most representative organization caring for the interests 

 of these sheep is the American Delaine Merino Record 

 Association, mentioned under the American Merino. 

 Starting with the organization of the Victor-Beall De- 

 laine Merino Sheep Breeders' Association, established in 

 1882, in Pennsylvania, a large number of societies have 

 been formed, of restricted membership and more or less 

 restricted influence. Several of these have published 

 flock-books, and have established score-cards for judging 

 purposes. 



