378 THE BREEDS OF LIVE-STOCK 
of hardiness. The truth is, perhaps, that the Rambouil- 
lets, being larger than American Merinos, require more 
food, which was not always given them. About 1890, a 
revival of interest in the 
breed occurred, and_ since 
then it has greatly increased 
in distribution and in esteem. 
The later breeders have not 
found the Rambouillet to 
lack in hardiness. Much 
blood from the German flock 
of Baron F. Von Homeyer 
ae has been mingled with the 
Fig. 75. — Rambouillet ram. bloodss ot France, esaGh Tae 
merous importations from each country have been made. 
The Franco-Merinos represent the blood of the Ram- 
bouillet and the American 
Merino. 
466. Description. — The 
most striking difference be- 
tween the Rambouillet and 
the American Merino is in 
size (Figs. 75, 76). Rams 
at maturity will average in 
weight 175 to 185 pounds, 
and ewes should average 140 
to 160 pounds. Individuals, 
both male and female, may 
go as much as a hundred pounds heavier. This large 
body, usually smooth and free from wrinkles, except 
perhaps, one or two folds on the neck, is completely 
covered with a fine white fleece, not bearing too much 
oil. The fleece should be dense, and the staple about 
Fic. 76.— Rambouillet ewe. 
