Leicester Longwood Sheep
FACTFILE
Rarity
The Leicester Longwool sheep is considered an ‘At Risk’ breed by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. This means they are close to becoming extinct.
Productivity
The Leicester Longwool produces beautiful wool as well as a small amount of meat!
Superpower: Mothering Ability
These sheep make great mums because they produce so much milk to feed their lambs and are often able to look after triplets – that’s three lambs!
Breed History
The Leicester Longwool breed dates all the way back to the 18th century – that’s over 300 years ago! They are one of the first breeds to be changed through a process called ‘selective breeding’ by a man called Robert Bakewell.
Our Purpose
Leicester Longwool sheep are particulary known for their long wool! Their wool is a favourite of spinners because of extra the long fibres. They also produce lean meat but these days are not really bred for that purpose.