THE DELAINE MERINO 



363 



flocks of prominent Merino breeders, in which both American and 

 Delaine sheep are found. The former are mated with the latter, 

 according to circumstances, in order to regulate type and wool 

 production. If a Delaine ewe of excellent mutton type has too 

 open and light a fleece, she will be bred to an American ram of 

 high wool-producing qualities, with the expectation of obtaining 

 a Delaine with a better fleece. More folds may exist at the neck 



Fig. 161. A Black Top Merino ewe, first prize at the Ohio State Fair, 1905. 

 Exhibited by R. D. McGonigle & Sons of Ohio. Photograph from the 

 American Sheep Breeder 



and breast, but not enough to furnish serious objection on the 

 part of the Delaine breeder. The important thing is to keep up 

 the size and mutton form without reducing the amount and char- 

 acter of the wool below a satisfactory grade. This calls for a 

 fleece to grade XX or better and have a staple of superior length, 

 diameter, strength, and crimp. There should also be plenty of free- 

 flowing oil, essential for a high-grade fleece. 



The mutton value of the Delaine has long been emphasized, 

 and is an important argument advanced by breeders in its behalf. 



