JACOB SHEEP

The Jacob Sheep is a primitive breed that probably originated three thousand years ago in the region that is now Syria. The Jacob is a small-to-medium breed ranging between 80 and 120 lbs. for adult ewes, while rams can weigh up to 180lbs. Identifying features of the breed are its multiple horns and spotted coat. Ideal colouration should

be 60% white with 40% random black or lilac spots. Breed-specific markings are a pair of coloured eye patches, white blaze, dark pigmentation on the nose leather, or a full muzzle patch. Legs can be spotted or white, while feet should be black or striped. The Jacobs' crowning glory is their horns, which both rams and ewes sport. A polycerate (multi-horned) breed, they can have two, four, or six horns. These sheep are ideal for the hobby farm. Their fleeces are wonderful for hand spinners, they produce lean and tasty meat, are good foragers, and are resistent to parasites and foot ailments.

At Belmeadow we acquired our first Jacobs in 1999. Our breeding stock is diverse in its lineage and we have both black and lilac producers. We offer lambs and adult breeding stock (when available), freezer lamb, raw fleeces, and washable hides. Below are images of our flock sires, some of our breeding ewes, and their lambs. Please e-mail us for more info.