412 THE ESSENTIALS OF AGRICULTURE 



545. The Southdown. The Southdown (Fig. 208) is the old- 

 est and smallest of the Down breeds. It originated in south- 

 eastern England in the hills known as the Southdowns. The 

 breed was introduced into the United States probably during the 

 colonial days. It is thought by many to approach most nearly 

 to the ideal mutton form. It is short-legged, thick-fleshed, broad, 

 blocky, and compact. Sheep of this breed are alert and active, 

 and have stylish carriage. The fleece is short, of medium quality, 



FIG. 208. The Southdown 

 Compact, square body, dense wool, and clean legs and face 



dense, and covers the head and neck to the eyes, and the legs 

 down to the knees. The face and legs are grayish brown. Both 

 ewes and rams are hornless. 



546. The Shropshire. The Shropshire breed (Fig. 209) origi- 

 nated in western England. It was introduced into the United 

 States about 1860. This breed has proved very popular in 

 America, especially on the farms of the eastern and central 

 states. It is larger than the Southdown. It has an excellent 

 mutton form, though not quite so compact as the Southdown. 



