Ministry of Agriculture promotes Katahdin Sheep as a low-maintenance, friendly breed ideal for small farms

Photo Credit: MAFSE

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Katahdin sheep are a great choice for small-scale farmers who want to improve their livestock quality and productivity, according to a social media post by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE).

These sheep are available at the Sheep and Goat Breeding Center in Central Farm under the joint Goat and Sheep Project supported by the Governments of Taiwan and Belize.

MAFSE said these sheep developed in the United States have many advantages over other breeds. They are friendly, adaptable, and easy to care for. They shed their wool naturally, so they don’t need shearing or docking. They have high resistance to parasites and diseases, so they don’t need much medication or treatment. They are good mothers and produce healthy lambs that grow fast and have lean meat. They can live in different climates and environments, as long as they have access to fresh water, hay, and grain. They are calm and gentle, so they can be handled by anyone, even beginners. They come in different colors and patterns, adding beauty and variety to your farm. They are medium-sized and weigh between 125 and 250 pounds, depending on their gender. They need a simple shelter with good ventilation and a sturdy fence to keep them safe and comfortable.

Katahdin sheep are a great choice for pasture-based farming, as they mainly graze on grass and only need hay when the pasture is scarce. They also have high reproductive rates, with ewes reaching sexual maturity at 10-12 months. Mature rams can service up to 30 ewes per season.

To ensure accurate records and efficient management, rams should be separated from the flock except during mating time.

Sheep and Goat Breeding Center may be reached at 824-3032.

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