Sheep : DRYSDALE

Origin: New Zealand

Australian Status:

International Status:

Arrived in Australia: 1970's

Australia Population: Ewes: 45     Rams: 10 (2018)

Distribution:

History:  The friendly sheep.

Dr. Francis Dry of Massey University in New Zealand, had been researching the hairy gene in sheep and acquired a Romney ram in 1931 for its hairy fleece. Using Romneys and Cheviots he kept the trait dominant, gaining a breed that needed shearing twice a year and which had long coarse wool suited to carpets and upholstery. It was also useful in electrical environments where static electricity was a problem, when developing electronics (computers). The T gene causing the coarse wool means both genders are horned. The rams have far bigger horns than the ewes.

During the 1970's Drysdales were brought to Australia from New Zealand and after initial popularity, the wool collapse in the 1980's, impacted on the breed and the numbers dropped dramatically. The good robust frame and solidarity of these sheep yields a good carcase too. The wool is medullated, without crimp and about 40 microns to low 40's. Insulation is another use for this wool.

Breed traits: Charming features of these sheep are their friendliness and appearance. They have a confident, attractive air, being handsome and strong. They are intelligent, good natured and hardy. Shorn twice a year, both clips yield a generous fleece. It is white wool without lustre and has plenty of spring. Regarded as a wool breed, they nonetheless eat well, having full flavour and a good meaty carcase. The wool also spins beautifully, sought by hand spinners. The wool is believed to be the strongest of all sheep, and wears extra well, giving a lot of service - ideal for army berets, blankets, and emergency blankets and strong felt products such as for refugee camps, and adventuring products for mountaineers and Antarctic scientists.

A delightful breed, useful, good-looking and friendly!

Uses: insulation, wool quilts, carpets, upholstery, kersey (woollen cloth), meat.

Breed Organisation: Australian Stud Sheep Breeders Association Ltd. http://www.assba.com.au/Main.asp?_=Home  There is only one registered flock of Drysdales left in Australia, those of Beersheba Farm http://www.beershebafarm.com/

Additional Notes:

Photo Courtesy of Beersheba Farm.

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