Devon Closewool sheep characteristics

Devon Closewool raised mainly for meat. The breed is originated in the Exmoor region of Southwest England.

Devon Closewool breed information

The sheep are medium-sized with a white face. Having dense, medium-length fleece.

A grassland sheep and is very hardy, having a docile temperament.

Both sexes are polled.

The mature ram weight is around 90 kg(200 lb) and ewe around  60 kg(130 lb).

Lambing percentages are usually between 150-170%

Ewes remain prolific and productive for up to 7 crops

Rams are fertile for as long as 6 to 7 years.

The fleece of rams weighs 6 kg, ewes 4 kg with a micron count of 48-53.

Things to know

was developed by crossing Exmoor ewes with a Devon Longwool ram in the late 19th century.

The Devon Closewool Sheep Breeders Society for the breed was formed in the year 1923.

The breed is suited to open grasslands and in the upland territory.

According to rbst website: “The Closewool ewe mated to a Blue Faced Leicester

ram produces an exceptional half-bred ewe. She has many advantages over the other “Mules”. Her size, superior fleshing, an abundance of milk, heightened mothering ability and, above all, her ability to produce and fatten twins off permanent grassland, even up to 1100 feet above sea level, make her the ideal hybrid ewe. The Mule crossed with a terminal breed will outperform others with the added benefit of a docile, cheaper to keep ewe. Producers report consistent 1.8 – 2 lambs sold per ewe put to ram in lowland flocks.”

Brief characteristics of Devon Closewool

Breed Name	Devon Closewool
Other Name
Country/Place of Origin	England
Breed Purpose	meat
Breed Size	medium
Weight Ram(Male)	90 kg(200 lb)
Ewe(Female)	60 kg(130 lb)
Kidding	single or twins
Good for Stall Fed	open grazing
Climate Tolerance	local conditions