Shropshire

---

   The Shropshire is a Down breed developed by crossing horned sheep with Cotswold, Leicester and Southdown. They were imported to Canada in the 1860's and for nearly a century were one of the country's most popular breeds. The breed declined drastically after the 1950's and they are currently on the rare breeds list. Docile, with a sound constitution, they are extremely hardy, enabling efficient flock management involving minimal time and effort. Rams are renowned terminal sires, robust with good conformation, hardy and long lived. Ewes make excellent mothers; have abundant milk, and reproductive longevity. The lambs produce an excellent carcass at lighter weights. The fleece is heavier and of better quality than the other Down breeds.  (Courtesy CSBA)