414 



THE ESSENTIALS OF AGRICULTURE 



548. The Oxford Down. The Oxford Down sheep originated 

 in the county of Oxford, England. This breed, compared with 

 the other Down breeds, has been developed recently. It was 

 first brought to this country about 1846. At first glance the 

 Oxford resembles the Shropshire, but it is a larger sheep than 



FIG. 2i< 



jhire and Hampshin 



This cross produces an excellent type of sheep. In the specimen here shown the 



Hampshire characteristics are most prominent large body, dark face and legs, and 



slight tendency toward ranginess 



either the Shropshire or Hampshire, and the face, ears, and 

 legs are lighter brown. The wool covers the forehead, but not 

 quite so heavily as in the Shropshire, though with a longer, 

 looser forelock. The ears point outward and usually are long, 

 thin, and free from wool. Like the Shropshire and Hampshire 

 this breed is hornless. 



549. The Dorset Horn. The Dorset Horn breed originated 

 in southern England. Sheep of this breed were not brought to 

 America until 1885. It is noted for the production of early 

 lambs. In form the Dorset is essentially of the mutton type. 



