MORE IMPORTANT BREEDS OF SHEEP 



449 



weighing in good condition about 200 pounds, and the 

 ewes from 140 to 160 pounds. This breed is characterized 

 by the following distinctive features. The head and ears 

 should be free of wool, and covered with a hard, white, 

 glossy hair. Eed or sandy hair occasionally appears, but 

 is very objectionable. Small black spots also sometimes 

 occur on the long, thin, erect ears, and on the head, but are 

 growing in disfavor. A Roman nose is common on the 

 rams, and on some ewes. The eye is prominent and bold. 





Fig. 245. — Pen of Cheviot rams of J. R. C. Smith, Mowhaugh, Scotland. 



The body frequently lacks in thickness, and tends to nar- 

 rowness of chest, withers and back, compared with the 

 Southdown. The skin is very generally of a bright pink 

 color. The fleece is of medium length, lacks in compactness, 

 and is often somewhat coarse about tlie thighs. A twelve 

 months' fleece on a mature ram weighs about nine pounds, 

 while seven pounds is a fair weight for an improved ewe. 

 The Cheviot is notable for its style and grace of carriage, 

 being one of the most beautiful of breeds. It is very 

 nervous and active of temperament. 



