Chios sheep are raised for milk and meat. They are originated from Chios of Greek island. The breed is classified as a semi-fat tailed breed.
Chios sheep breed information
Chios has black spots on the ears, legs and around the eyes.
Both sexes are horned.
The horns are spiral and large in rams, but small in ewes.
Chios ewes reach maturity at the age of 7 to 8 months.
A non-seasonal breeder and early maturation breed.
Twins and triplets are common. The lambing percentage is around 1.5 to 2.4.
The average birth weight is around 3.5 to 4 kg.
The lambs grow relatively faster and they reach 14.5 to 16 kg live body weight within their 45 days of age.
Total milk per lactation is approximately 350 kg. The average lactation period is 210 days.
The average growth rate of lambs is between 200 to 300 g per day.
Due to their high prolificacy and fast-growing lambs, meat production will be high.
The mature ram of Chios is around 80 kg (176 lb) and the ewe is around 65 kg (140 lb).
The fleece weight per sheep is around 1.2 to 2.5 kg, with a staple length of 8 to 13 cm. The wool diameter is 27 to 35 micrometers.
Things to know
It is believed that the breed is crossed with Kivircik and Dagliç.
Brief characteristics of Chios sheep
| Breed Name | Chios sheep |
| Other Name | |
| Country/Place of Origin | Chios, Greek Island |
| Breed Purpose | Milk |
| Breed Size | medium |
| Weight Ram(Male) | 80 kg (176 lb) |
| Ewe(Female) | 65 kg (140 lb) |
| Kidding | single |
| Good for Stall Fed | open grazing and confinement |
| Climate Tolerance | local conditions |
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