RACES OF SHEEP 239 
breed takes its name .freom the downs that line the 
southern coast of England. The Southdown has a 
smooth, even body, a round, clear barrel, short legs, fine 
head, and broad loins. The face and feet are brown or 
gray. They are hornless and rather small. The fleece 
is of moderate weight and quality. They are at their 
best on hilly land with a dry soil and not too moist 
herbage. They have been much used in crossing for mutton. 
PEN OF SOUTHDOWN LAMBS 
5. Shropshire-——The Shropshire is the most popular 
mutton breed in the United States. It is larger and 
heavier than the Southdown and grows a heavier and 
better wool. It is readily adapted to good or thin pas- 
tures, and the mutton is excellent. The wool covers the 
whole face and scarcely leaves visible the eyes and the 
black tip of the nose; it also extends down the legs almost 
to the hoofs. The ewes are prolific, many twin lambs ap- 
pearing. The ewes will weigh from 150 to 175 pounds, 
the rams up to 225 pounds. These sheep are especially 
at home under general farm conditions. 
