132 
MAMMALS 
Oxen of this breed grow to large size and are much prized as 
work animals (Figure 121). 
105. Sheep. — Sheep have been domesticated for ages, 
being possibly the first mammals domesticated by man. 
They thrive in nearly all climates and can find food where 
other mammals can scarcely live. Sheep furnish wool and 
meat. There are three classes, based on the quality of the 
Figure 123. — Two Yearling Ewes and Two Ewe Lambs. 
The famous Hampshire breed of coarse wool sheep. Compare with 
Figure 124. 
wool. These are the fine wool breeds like the Merino, 
which had its origin in Spain, whence they have been carried 
to all countries where sheep raising is an important industry ; 
the medium wool breeds like the Southdown; and the long 
wool breeds like the Leicester, both of which are English 
breeds. The fine wool breed is raised principally for the 
wool, the meat value being a secondary consideration. The 
medium wool breeds are raised principally for the meat and 
