Longwool breeds are characterised by their lack of horns, large size/frame, long wool with a silvery and glistening appearance. They have a heavy, long fleece and all-white face and legs. They are typically used to crossbreed with draft hill ewes. Compared to hill sheep, they are faster growing.

Border Leicester


Border Leicester 02
  • The Border Leicester originated in the border regions of Southern Scotland and the North of England.
  • They have a distinctive appearance. Their head is covered with short white hair (no wool).
  • They have large white ears and a roman nose.
  • The Border Leicester ewe has a good maternal instinct and is moderately prolific.
  • The chief uses of wool are hosiery, dress fabrics, lining materials and hand-knitting wool.





Bluefaced Leicester


Bluefaced Leicester
  • The Bluefaced Leicester originated in the North of England.
  • The Bluefaced Leicester is considered the most important longwool crossing breed.
  • The skin of a Bluefaced Leicester is blueish in colour which shows through the white hair covering the head.
  • Their fleece is the finest of the longwool breeds, and it is important that the wool be tightly purled, fine and open cleanly to the skin.
  • They are the longest bodied of the British sheep and have large ears and a roman nose.
  • They are free of wool on their head, neck, belly and legs.
  • The Bluefaced Leicester ewe is prolific and has very good milking ability to match this.






Longwool Breeds Learning Resources
FlashcardsFlashcards logo.png
Flashcards
Test your knowledge using flashcard type questions
Sheep Breeds Flashcards