These characteristics, also known as breed traits, are inherited. St. Croix Hair Sheep pass these traits from generation to generation. All purebred St. Croix carry many genetic traits of the foundation sheep. The following are traits common to St. Croix Hair Sheep and make them a unique, identifiable, landrace breed.
Appearance Characteristics
- Most are white, but a few express some brown or black
- Hair coat sheds smooth in summer, and thick with mixed hair and downy undercoat in winter
- Mature rams sport a lion-like mane that may fall down to the knees
- Most are polled, but some have scurs
Size & Meat Traits
- Mature rams weigh 150-200 pounds
- Ewes weigh 120-150 pounds
- Twin lambs weigh an average of 7 pounds at birth
- Carcass is similar to the Rambouillet, but with 23% higher yield due to smaller bone and less fat
- Smaller size ideal for many ethnic markets
Performance Characteristics
- Proven resistance to internal parasites
- Can thrive on substandard forage & varied climates
- Ewes can produce two lamb crops per year, usually twins
- Ewes can raise larger litter sizes
- Ewes reach sexual maturity at six or seven months
- Rams can breed as early as 4 months
Behavioral Characteristics
- Active and vigorous without any tendency to be wild
- Good flocking instinct
- Generally docile
- Good mothering instincts