COTSWOLD SHEEP. 273 



stand rather higher from the ground, and are a little less in 

 the flanks. 



(3) The average weight of the mature Cotswold ram in 

 fair flesh is about 250 to 275 pounds and of the ewe 200 to 

 225 pounds. 



II. Adaptability. 



(1) When pure, Cotswolds require good pastures, but can 

 climb moderate elevations. 



(2) When crossed with some hardy breed, as the Merinos, 

 the progeny can feed on more rugged land and less fruitful 

 pastures. 



III. Early maturing qualities. 



(1) In early maturity they are now almost if not quite 

 equal to the Leicesters. 



(2) The lambs make heavy weights at an early age. 



IV. Grazing qualities. 



(1) Relatively they are good grazers for a heavy breed, 

 but 



(2) No heavy breed can graze so well upon lands more 

 rugged than mildly hilly. 



V. Feeding qualities. 



(1) Cotswolds feed well either when folded or in sheds, 

 and 



(2) When ill fed they are mere ungainly than some other 

 breeds. 



VI. Quality of the meat. 



(1) Cotswolds dress well on the block, but 



(2) Much of the fat is laid on externally, and the meat 

 is only moderately fine in the grain. 



VII. Value in crossing and grading. 



(1) Cotswolds cross well upon fine wooled breeds, as 

 Merino grades, when much medium wool with improved mut- 

 ton qualities are desired. 



(2) They also make an excellent otitcross for restoring 

 size and wool production in certain grades where these have 

 been unduly diminished. 



VIII. Breeding qualities. 



(1) These are much the same as in the other long wool 

 breeds, but 



(2) In milking qualities the Cotswolds may have some 

 advantage, and they produce strong lambs, 



18 



