FLEECE CHARACTERISTICS 



383 



ingly, it is necessary to have a clear idea of the kind of 

 wool produced by the various types of sheep. Market 

 considerations are also important, but if the three distinct 

 types of wool are clearly understood and their qualities 

 defined from the breed-production standpoint, the value of 

 the fleece may be judged accurately from the viewpoint of 

 the stockman. 



FIG. 162. Method of examining the character, quality and condition 

 of the fleece. Wool should be parted at a natural opening. Fingers should 

 be kept close together to avoid ruffling wool. 



Method of Examination. In judging fleece characteristics 

 the best results are obtained by following some regular 

 procedure in making the examination. The wool covering 

 of the head should first be noted, after which it should be 

 examined over the shoulder, mid-body, and outer thigh 

 respectively. With the fingers extending straight and held 

 close together, the wool should first be opened over the 

 shoulder. This should be done by parting the wool at a 

 natural opening to avoid ruffling or matting it. The finest 

 wool grows in this region, and a determination of the quality 

 in this part should not be taken as the standard. The wool 

 should next be opened over the mid-body and outer thigh 

 in the same manner. A balance of the fleece characteristics 

 indicated in these parts will furnish an accurate guide to 

 the wooling qualities throughout. 



