Nellore

Nellore sheep are a large Indian meat breed from the Nellore region of Andhra Pradesh and adjoining dry parts of southern India. They are among the taller sheep types of the subcontinent, with long legs, a narrow body, pendulous ears, and a coat that is more hair and coarse fiber than fine wool. Local strains are often described by color, including white or pale animals with darker markings, reddish-brown types, and spotted or patterned sheep. Rams may carry horns, while ewes are commonly polled.

The breed is valued where heat tolerance, walking ability, and survival on sparse grazing are more important than fleece production. Flocks are often managed under semi-intensive or migratory systems, using crop residues, roadside grazing, and seasonal pastures, with lambs sold mainly for meat. Good mineral nutrition and control of internal parasites remain important, especially when animals are moved into wetter districts. Outside India, Nellore sheep are of interest mainly for tropical adaptation and genetic conservation rather than commercial wool.