THE BBEEDING OF SHEEP 



411 



then cracked corn may constitute the grain. If at all possible, 

 succulent food, either roots or silage, should be provided, as 

 such food serves to keep them in good physical condition, and to 

 encourage the flow of milk. 



Fig. 135. — .Suffolk Ewe. A prize winner. I'hotogTaph tTora National Stock- 

 man and Farmer. 



The Suffolk Down mutton sheep originated in Suffolk County, England. They 

 are similar in many respects to the Hampshires, though perhaps a little under 

 them in weight. They are inferior to the Hampshire as wool producers, 

 shearing only .5 to 7 pounds of fair-quality wool. 



Lambing time. — The period of gestation in the ewe is popu- 

 larly placed at five months, more accurately 150 day.s (page 

 408). Previous to the lamljing time the sheep owner should 

 make ready for this eventful season. The ewes should be neatly 

 tagged, all wool being removed from the udder, as otherwise a 



