Wiltshire Polled, also known as Wiltipoll, Sheep are polled
sheep that were developed in Australia. Development was started with Wiltshire
Horned ewes and expanded with Border Leicester, Perendale, Poll Dorset, and
Poll Merino genetics.
Wiltshire Polled Sheep are large (they weigh up to 125 kg -276
lb), are very hardy, and can survive on rough, scrubby feed. They are primarily
raised for meat.
Wiltshire Polled Sheep shed their wool annually. Due to this
process, the energy of the sheep is directed into meat and milk, not wool. They
are therefore very low maintenance as there is no need for shearing, crutching,
jetting, dipping and docking of tails. They are grass seed resistant and fly
and lice resistant, reducing the need for chemicals or the painful practice of
mulesing. All this means less expense and work.
Wiltshire Polled Sheep have a high lambing percentage of
130-180% and tremendous maternal instincts. They are renowned for multiple
births, twins, and triplets. That means fewer ewes to manage and feed with more
prime lamb to sell. They produce prime lambs without laying down fat therefore
producing a very lean, excellent quality meat.
About Wiltshire Polled Sheep
