Romney Longwool Ancient Conservation Breed

13th Century

Part of the English longwool group. Originally from the Romney Marshes in the South East of England. These sheep are hardy and large with a friendly and calm nature.

Fleece Details

Breed History

Romney Longwool sheep is a breed that originated in the United Kingdom. The Romney sheep breed is named after the Romney Marsh area in southeastern England, where it was developed. It is a versatile breed known for its excellent wool and adaptability to various climates.

Here are some characteristics of the Romney Longwool sheep breed:

Appearance: Romney Longwools are large, sturdy sheep with a long, broad body. They have a distinct Roman nose and a strong head with long, pendulous ears. Both rams and ewes are horned.

Wool: The breed is primarily valued for its dense, lustrous, and high-quality wool. The fleece is long, lustrous, and soft, with a staple length of around 15 to 20 centimeters (6 to 8 inches). The wool is known for its excellent spinning and felting properties, making it popular among handspinners and fiber artists.

Adaptability: Romney Longwools are adaptable and hardy sheep that can thrive in various climates. They have been successfully raised in many countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.

Temperament: They are generally docile and easy to handle, which makes them suitable for small-scale farming operations or hobby flocks. Their calm demeanor makes them manageable during shearing and other husbandry practices.

Utility: While primarily raised for their wool, Romney Longwools also have good meat quality. Their carcasses produce flavorful, lean meat that is well-suited for the table.

The Romney Longwool sheep breed has made significant contributions to the sheep industry, especially in wool production. They continue to be popular among farmers and fiber enthusiasts due to their excellent wool characteristics and adaptability to different environments.