Polwarth sheep primarily raised for wool and meat production. The breed is developed in Victoria, Australia. The Polwarth sheep are three-quarters of Merino and one-quarter of Lincoln. The breed was developed in order to produce the hardiness which was lacking in Merino breed.
Polwarth sheep breed information
Polwarth sheep are a medium-sized breed that is dual-purpose, produces soft wool and best meat. But the major emphasis is given on wool production.
Polwarths are docile in nature which makes for easy care and handling.
The adult Polwarth ram weighs 70 kg (155 lb) and ewe weighs 50 kg (110 lb).
Polwarth wool is generally white in color. But nowadays there is a huge demand for natural black and grey wool.
The wool is ultra-white with excellent length, crimp and yield; and it is fine and soft enough for next-to-skin wear.
The fleece weight of Polwarth is around 6 to 7 kg with a fiber diameter of 23 to 25 microns.
Polwarth wool has a longer staple length up to 13 cm, which is suitable for hand spinners.
When mated to terminal sires, ewes produce quality prime lambs with length, depth of carcass and an excellent ratio of lean muscle to fat.
Polwarth ability to conceive at all times of the year and are versatile in a range of climatic conditions.
Things to know
During 1990, Polwarth sheep was developed in Victoria, Australia mainly for fine wool and good meat.
Mill spun yarns made solely of Polwarth wool are commercially available.
A great demand for the Polwarth wool for the craft.
Polwarth is now seen in South America. Due to the demand for high-quality wools, such as from Polwarth sheep, farmers are increasingly able to see good returns from their hardy flocks.
“The Polwarth Sheepbreeders’ Association of Australia was formed in 1918 and the studbook closed in 1948. Polwarths are now raised mostly in the higher rainfall regions of south-eastern Australia that have improved pastures.” – wiki
Polwarth and Corriedale from the main sheep breeds on the Falkland Islands.
Polwarth sheep characteristics
| Breed Name | Polwarth sheep |
| Other Name | |
| Country/Place of Origin | Australia |
| Breed Purposeamerica | meat and wool |
| Breed Size | medium |
| Weight Ram(Male) | 70 kg (155 lb) |
| Ewe(Female) | 50 kg (110 lb) |
| Kidding | single |
| Good for Stall Fed | open grazing |
| Climate Tolerance | local conditions |
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