Qinghai Black Tibetan
Qinghai black Tibetan sheep are a dark-coated strain of Tibetan sheep from Qinghai Province on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. They are domestic sheep adapted to high elevation, intense sun, cold wind, and seasonal forage shortages. The black fleece and dark points distinguish them from more common white Tibetan sheep, while the body type remains that of a rugged plateau animal: moderate size, coarse or mixed fleece, strong grazing ability, and a constitution suited to oxygen-thin rangeland. They are kept for lamb, mutton, wool, hides, and as a locally adapted genetic resource.
Most management occurs in pastoral systems where flock movement, winter feed reserves, and protection from storms are central. These sheep may perform poorly if judged by lowland meat-breed growth rates, but their value shows in survival, mothering, and use of sparse native pasture. Outside their home area, heat stress, unfamiliar parasites, and rich feeds need attention. Breeders and conservation projects should maintain the black color and Tibetan adaptation while avoiding unnecessary crossing, since the strain can be useful for studies of coat color, altitude tolerance, and sustainable plateau grazing.
