Classification of Breeds of Sheep. 261 



THE SOUTHDOWN. 



This little aristocratic breed is one of the oldest 

 in history. It is generally called the "gentleman's 

 sheep." The form of the Southdown meets more 

 nearly with the ideal market requirements than 

 any other breed. This breed is not as popular as 

 it should be. In the southern and eastern states, 

 it is appreciated more than in the middle and 

 western states. The chief reason for their unpop- 

 ularity is probably the fact that they do not grow 

 as large as other breeds and do not shear as 

 heavy fleeces. 



The Southdown, with its excellent mutton form 

 and qualities, is built low to the ground and has a 

 very compact, symmetrical form. The hindquar- 

 ters are very full and deep, carrying meat far down 

 to the hocks. The head and ears are short, but 

 attractive. The face and legs should be of a uni- 

 form gray, or mouse color. The neat body is 

 wrapped in a rather short, but extremely dense 

 fleece, with but little yolk in it. Although the 

 fleece is rather light in weight, they produce the 

 finest quality of wool, next to the Merino families. 

 Their small appearance often deceives one as to 

 their real weight. 



Among the many breeds the Southdown, from 

 the writer's observation, is the most economical 

 feeder, as it keeps up the longest in flesh when the 



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