Classification of Breeds of Sheep. 293 



THE AMERICAN MERINO. 



This breed originates from Spain, and as nearly 

 as can be ascertained the first importation into this 

 country was made in 1801. It is primarily a wool 

 sheep, the wool being of the finest quality and con- 

 taining a large amount of yolk. The fleece is so 

 dense that it sheds water, which adds greatly to the 

 sheep's extreme hardiness. The whole body from 

 the nose down to the hocks is wrinkled. A heavy 

 shearing is thus made possible by the many extra 

 folds, the density of the wool and the great amount 

 of yolk. Rams of this breed in one year's growth 

 have produced fleeces from thirty-five to forty 

 pounds. Wool covers this sheep from the nose 

 to the feet. The color of the face, legs and ears is 

 white. The rams have horns. In judging this 

 breed at fairs, the quality and quantity of wool is 

 the chief consideration. Only sufficient constitution 

 and stamina are required to secure vigor. At the 

 present time we do not find the American Merino 

 exhibited at all of the state and countv fairs. 



