184 



THE RURAL EFFICIENCY GUIDE STOCK 



representing these types will be noted in the tabulation of breeds and their 

 principal characteristics. The variation in the form and thickness of flesh of 

 sheep, produces a range in the size and weight from very spare wool types 

 to very thick and heavy mutton types. The medium or middle wool and 

 the long or coarse wool breeds are naturally of the mutton type. The smaller, 

 fine wool breeds do not excel in mutton production. The larger, fine wool 

 breeds, more especially the Rambouillet, have been improved in mutton form 

 and compare more favorably with other mutton breeds. 



Every animal sold off the farm carries pounds of fertility that must be replaced in some form. 



Choosing a Breed. One's preference can be indulged in the selection 

 of sheep. The character of the land affects its adaptability for sheep of a 

 given size. Smaller breeds will be most satisfactory on hilly lands, while 

 the larger breeds are better adapted and require comparatively level land. 

 Breeds that excel in mutton production are under ordinary conditions re- 

 garded with most general favor. Hot house lambs for Christmas and winter 

 market demand breeds that will mate in summer. The Dorset Horn and 

 Tunis are the two most profitable breeds for this purpose. 



Selection of Ewe Flock. The late summer or early autumn season is 

 when the flock owner culls his flock and prepares the breeding flock that he 

 expects to winter. There is usually a surplus of ewes suitable for breeding 

 and this offers the beginner, or one desiring to increase his flock, the best op- 

 portunity to buy. The owner as well as the buyer of breeding ewes should 

 avoid non-breeding, broken mouthed and diseased ewes. Ewes with injured 



