Romneys are a dual purpose breed of sheep,bred for their wool and their meat. The breed was originally known as Romney Marsh Sheep, named for their native region surrounding Kent, England known as the Romney Marshes. To survive on the marsh the Romney developed into a breed with hard feet, a lustrous fleece and excellent mothering abilities that allow the ewes to easily raise twins and triplets. They also have a very gentle nature that makes them an excellent breed choice for youth looking for a livestock project for 4-H or FFA as well as for new shepherds just starting out. Romneys are also proving to be productive in properly managed grass fed operations.
A Romney fleece has a staple length of about 6" and a shine to it called lustre. It is also nicely crimped and not too greasy which are two more features that make Romney fleeces a favorite with handspinners, The long staple make for easy drawing and is great for beginning spinners. Romneys come in white and natural colors of black and various shades of grey and occasionally in shades of a brown color called Moorit. These wonderful natural colors and the various telltale patterning that occurs with them come from recessive genes that have been obscured by a dominant black gene. Armed with a better understanding of how to recognize the sheep carrying these recessive genetics we are beginning to select for them in order to be able to offer a wider selection of color in our fleeces.
For those who enjoy the culinary attributes of lamb, the Romney breed excels in producing quality cuts with a mild taste. Long after the flavor of the meat of other breeds has become stronger tasting the meat of a Romney will still retain its mildness. Because of the quality of the carcass and the characteristics of their wool Romney rams are frequently used in crossbreeding for commercial flocks and are the foundation of several other breeds.
For more information on Romneys and breeders in your area visit the website of the American Romney Breeders Association.
