178 



OUR DOMESTIC ANIMALS 



the natural length of the wool. Rams of this 

 Lincoln race are sometimes sold in England for 

 as much as five thousand dollars, but never as 

 yet have they reached that price in this country-. 



The Cotswold breed, originating in the moun- 

 tainous regions of that name, resembles in man)- 

 ways the two preceding races, but it is not so 

 stout and its legs are longer, giving it a more 

 active and lively appearance. It is also distin- 

 guished by the handsome tuft on its forehead. 



The Long-wool Devon breed is also a part 

 of this group ; it is hea\-y, with long legs, and 



Leicester, Lincoln, and Cotswold breeds have 

 been imported to the United States for a great 

 man\- years, and now we ha\-e many prosperous 

 flocks scattered throughout the country. They 

 are bred for both wool and mutton, although 

 the latter cjuality is paramount. 



These breeds recjuire abundant pasture, else 

 the best results will not be obtained, since the 

 animals are large and heavy eaters. It is owing 

 to this fact more than to all others that these 

 breeds have not gained any extended popu- 

 laril)' with us. The Merino and Down breeds, 



A F.A.MILV OF EXMOOR SlUlEP 



produces much meat and fat, besides, as its 

 name implies, a good supply of wool. 



The Kent, or Romney Marsh, sheep is a 

 product of the plains of Kent, and by its con- 

 formation and habits shows marked traces of 

 the region in which it lives. It likes good liv- 

 ing, but its bald head and stupid, good-natured 

 air convey an impression that is not altogether 

 favorable. This breed has not been favorably 

 received by American breeders, although at 

 one time it was valued very highly in England. 



In Ireland they raise sheep of this same 

 group, with white heads, long wool, and no 

 horns. Those named the Roscommon breed 

 testify to the judgment of Irish breeders. 



recjuiring less food and at the same time carry- 

 ins s:ood profits, have the first hold on American 

 breeders and feeders. 



The Cheviot breed, which ends the series of 

 this group, originated in the hilly country on 

 the frontiers of England and Scotland, and is a 

 charming type constant!)- growing in popularity 

 in our country. The name " Cheviot," applied 

 to a fabric, sufficiently shows the value attached 

 to the wool of this breed. Owing to the shape 

 of its head, neck, and ears it forms a group 

 apart. The head is bald and carried so low as 

 to seem sunk below the level of its back, but 

 its large ears stick up so drolly above its thin, 

 pale face that it gives one the idea of a mouse. 



