380 



JUDGING SHEEP 



objectionable but unsatisfactory in securing the best market 

 prices. Buyers often test the condition by grasping the 

 animal with one hand over the region of the back, loin and 

 ribs or at the dock. A full, firm, yet springy, even condition 

 of these parts is indicative of proper finish. 



Maturity. Sheep are mature when two years of age, 

 considered from the standpoint of the breeder. In mutton 



FIG. 159. A sheep in field condition. 



production, broadly speaking, the age may range from 

 that of the early lamb to the yearling, or to normally 

 mature animals sold or discarded from the breeding herd. In 

 judging market animals, maturity from the purely market 

 standpoint is all that need receive attention, other condi- 

 tions being equal. In judging breeding animals, however, 

 weight attainments for age are especially important. 



Deception from Trimming. Deception from trimming is 

 best illustrated by examining a sheep with the wool under 



