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WISCONSIN BULLETIN 263 



of sheep to make a start. It is far better to start with a small 

 flock and then to gradually let the flock grow in size as the 

 settler's knowledge of the sheep grows. 



A large flock should not be maintained unless there is a 

 competent man to care for it. Many settlers who have 

 started with large flocks and without experience, have, in 

 a short time, had but a small flock left. With a large flock 

 kept together sickness is far more likely to break out than 

 in smaller flocks. Sheep multiply rapidly and a large flock 



FIG. 6. LAMBS FROM THE SIX WESTERN EWES 



Note the change of mutton form of these lambs, compared with that of their 



mothers. 



can soon be raised from a small beginning, thus requiring 

 a smaller capital to be invested. 



CARING FOR THE SHEEP DURING THE SUMMER 



Even in some parts of Wisconsin the weather may get 

 very dry during the months of July and August, making the 

 pasturage scant. To furnish feed during this period, it is 

 advisable to sow a patch of rape early in the spring. This 

 will be ready to pasture when the dry weather comes and 

 will carry the flock without any loss in flesh. Another good 

 plan is to sow some rape with the small grain. After the grain 

 has been harvested, the sheep find good pasturage at a time 

 when it is badly needed. Some farmers find it profitable to 

 sow rape in the corn field at the time of the last cultivation. 

 This rape furnishes feed during the fall. 



