406 MANUAL OF FARM ANIMALS 



wishes to sell his surplus ewes for breeding purposes, they will 

 command a much higher price if uniform in all features, both 

 because of their intrinsic worth, and because of their improved . 

 general appearance. 



The ram 



The ram is by far the most important member of the flock. 

 Successful sheep breeders rely on him for much of the improve- 

 ment of the flock. What has been said about the stallion (page 

 102) and the bull (page 244) also applies here. 



The ewe flock 



If the farmer is just beginning, the best time to purchase the 

 foundation ewes is in the early fall; the best place to purchase 

 is in the locality in which the flock is to be kept. Breeding ewes 

 on the large markets are often discarded from other flocks or 

 from the western ranges. Such ewes are usually sent to market 

 because of their age or failure to breed, and are to be avoided 

 when possible. Local ewes will give much better satisfaction 

 when they can be procured; they are adapted to climatic 

 conditions and parasite dangers. Western ewes do hot resist 

 parasites as do native ewes. By purchasing the flock in the 

 early fall, the new owner has time to become familiar with it 

 before winter ; he can see to the mating, and thus know exactly 

 what time to expect the lambs. 



In choosing foundation ewes, too much attention cannot be 

 given the individual animals. They should each be carefully 

 considered. If purchased on a large market, the condition of 

 their teeth should be especially noted, as a ewe without teeth, 

 even though she breeds, is likely to give much trouble at lamb- 

 ing time. Moderately heavy fleeces are to be preferred, as they 

 indicate stronger sheep and greater feeding capacity. When 

 possible the condition of the udder should be noted, as many 

 ewes have spoiled udders and imperfect teats. 



