Small-Tail Han
The Small-tail Han, also written Small-tailed Han or Xiao Wei Han, is one of China's best-known indigenous sheep breeds. It developed on the agricultural plains of northern and eastern China, especially areas associated with Shandong, Henan, Hebei, and nearby provinces. Unlike fat-tailed sheep from arid regions, it has a relatively small thin tail, a white fleece or hair-wool coat, and a long, comparatively large frame. Its reputation comes from fertility: ewes are noted for early maturity, a long breeding season, and frequent twin or larger litters.
Chinese farms use Small-tail Han sheep for meat lamb production and as maternal stock in crossbreeding systems. The same prolificacy that makes the breed valuable also raises management demands. Ewes carrying multiples need steady nutrition before and after lambing, and lamb survival depends on colostrum, shelter, and close observation during crowded lambing periods. In export, research, or breeding projects, animals are usually discussed as a production population rather than a show breed. Buyers comparing lines should look for records on litter size, growth, udder soundness, and adaptation to the local parasite and climate conditions.
