Castlemilk Moorit
The Castlemilk Moorit is a distinctive and rare breed of sheep known for its charming appearance and storied history. Originating from Scotland, this breed was developed in the early 20th century by Sir Jock Buchanan-Jardine on his Castlemilk estate, where it was selectively bred by crossing Mouflon, Park, and Manx Loaghtan sheep to combine beauty with utility. The breed is particularly celebrated for its rich moorit-colored fleece, which is a warm, reddish-brown hue valued by hand-spinners and fiber artists.
Castlemilk Moorits are a relatively small breed, with ewes typically weighing between 40 to 50 kilograms and rams around 55 to 65 kilograms. They are characterized by their graceful, agile physique, and both sexes exhibit elegant spiral horns. This breed is hardy and exhibits excellent foraging abilities, making them well-suited to rugged terrains and less fertile pastures.
The Castlemilk Moorit is recognized not just for its fleece, but also for its ability to thrive in suboptimal conditions, contributing to its prominence in conservation grazing projects. Despite their hardiness, they are classified as a rare breed and are protected by conservation efforts to ensure their continued presence in the agricultural landscape. Their calm and engaging nature further endears them to sheep keepers and conservationists alike, making them treasured additions to traditional sheep farms and conservation herds.
Colors: Light Brown, Dark Brown, Silver Brown
