Ryeland Sheep Characteristics, Size, Weight, Milk Production, Price

Ryeland sheep are domestic sheep. They are found in the United Kingdom. In England, they originated from Herefordshire. It is an old sheep breed found almost 7 centuries back. These sheep came into being when monks of Leominster bred this sheep in Herefordshire and let them feed or graze in rye pastures. So these were named after the land they grazed i.e. Rye. This breed was first introduced to the lands of Australia during 1919 and at that time this breed was considered an endangered sheep because of its rarity. The main purpose of this breed is meat production.

Ryeland Sheep Characteristics


Ryeland sheep are docile and follow their farmers as commanded. They are also known for their high fertility rate. They are medium-sized animals but fast growth rate. They are usually white having black-colored hooves. Their fleece is of dark color and commonly found in the UK. They are very hardy animals. They are not aggressive and can live in a small-sized fence with harmony. They are resistant to footrot. The main purposes of this breed are meat production and wool production. Their fleece is valuable in making different items. Their wool is the finest in the UK having an average weight of 3 kg.

Ryeland Sheep Characteristics, Size, Weight, Milk Production, Price

Ryeland Sheep Size


Ryeland sheep are medium to large size sheep. They are not too small and mot too big. Their size makes them adorable and farmers do not have to worry about their fence. Because of their medium size, they can easily live in a small fence. They are well suited for small fences.

Ryeland Sheep Weight


Ryeland sheep are white colored sheep with black hooves and no horns. They look adorable. The average weight of these medium-sized animals differs between genders. A mature ewe may weigh around 9 to 12 and 14 pounds whereas a mature wither may weigh around 12 to 16 and 18 pounds.

Ryeland Sheep Milk Production


Ryeland sheep has two main purposes to serve that are wool production and meat production. But there is another characteristic for which they are well known i.e. milk production. They are fertile animals and their fertility rate is high. Their gestation period may last around 150 to 155 days. They usually produce twins at a time but sometimes can give birth to triplets. After every birth, their lactation period may last around 150 to 240 days. Mostly it is for 180 days. They start milking after 4 to 6 weeks of lambing. They produce good quality milk which is ideal for lambs.

Ryeland Sheep Price


Ryeland sheep are worthy to keep. They serve for many purposes throughout their life. They are useful either living or even dead. They are now a rare breed and are found after hard work. The price varies according to multiple factors that primarily include weight, gender, and size. The average price range of these sheep in the UK is 50 pounds to 200 pounds. The lambs are more expensive as compared to the mature rams and ewes. They are worthy to buy because their fleece and meat are sold separately in the market and can profit up to 5 times their original price.

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