Scientific name Ovis aries Rank Breed | Higher classification Sheep | |
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Similar North Country Cheviot, Hill Radnor, Beulah Speckled Face, Border Cheviot, Cheviot sheep | ||
The Brecknock Hill Cheviot (also known as Brecon Cheviot and Sennybridge Cheviot) is a domesticated breed of sheep originating approximately 400 years ago from Wales. They are a result of crosses with Welsh Mountain, Cheviot and Leicester breeds. This breed is primarily raised for meat. It was introduced into the US in 1838.
Characteristics
Brecknock Hill Cheviot have erect ears with white face and legs and a ruff of wool behind the ears. There is no wool on the face or legs below the knee or hock. Both sexes are polled (hornless) However, rams are occasionally horned.
Staple length is 6 to 10 cm (2.4 to 3.9 in) with a fleece weight of 1.5 to 2.5 kg (3.3 to 5.5 lb). The spinning count of the wool is 50's to 56's. The fleece has some kemp but not generally red. In the UK, the wool is used mainly for tweeds and knitwear. Mature ewes weigh 45 to 85 pounds (20 to 39 kg) and mature rams 55 to 100 pounds (25 to 45 kg).
