596 BULLETIN No. 129. [November, 



In marketing sheep, the tendency to market young animals 

 is becoming more and more prevalent, and some interest attaches 

 to the effect of this tendency upon the number of yearlings coming 

 to market now in comparison with past years. So far as we are 

 able to judge, there is proportionately no abatement in the number 

 and many believe it has increased. It would seem, then, that there 

 are a number of lambs each year that for one or several reasons 

 should not be marketed as lambs and hence a logical place is made 

 for yearlings. 



The grades are: PRIME, CHOICE, GOOD. 



PRIME YEARLINGS 



Yearlings, to grade as prime, must be highly developed in form, 

 quality, and condition, and of a light, handy weight, which ranges 

 from 70 to 90 pounds. The form of the prime yearling embodies 

 symmetry, compactness, roundness, and smoothness with no sug- 

 gestion of uneven lines or prominent parts. Unless such a form is 

 secured, the carcass will appear too great in size to look like a 

 lamb. In general quality the requirements are fine, clean cut 

 features, and a pelt of light weight. As with prime lambs, so with 

 yearlings, a high dressed percentage is demanded, and this is not 

 possible with the animal having very coarse features and a heavy 

 pelt. 



The most important considerations in placing a yearling in the 

 prime grade are quality of flesh and the amount of fat it carries. 

 Slight concessions may be made to a lack in general quality and 

 form, but none to a lack in fat. Unless fat, the yearling is un- 

 satisfactory, hence buyers discriminate sharply against those riot 

 showing a high finish. See plate 10. 



Si, 



CHOICE YEARLINGS 



>ince it is difficult to secure the most desirable form, quality, 

 condition, and weight combined in one animal, choice yearlings out- 

 number those of the prime grade. Any noticeable departure from 

 what is considered prime in any of the above characteristics is suf- 

 ficient to place a yearling in the choice grade. During the winter 

 season when the offerings of sheep are almost wholly grain fat- 

 tened the greater number of yearlings are in prime condition, but 

 at all times there are offerings that are not of the most desirable 

 form, quality, and weight. Heavy weight yearlings are most in 

 evidence during the winter season and at the period when yearlings 



