Zwartbles sheep are
from the Friesland region of the north Netherlands. They are primarily used for
the production of sheep milk as well as lamb and mutton. They are known for
being docile and friendly, and they are also prolific milkers and are excellent
mothers.
Zwartble sheep
have a distinct appearance; they have a black/brown fleece, a white blaze on
the face, 2 - 4 white socks, and a white tail tip (which is traditionally left
undocked). Both rams and ewes are polled. They are relatively large sheep: ewes
weigh an average of 85 kg (187lb), and rams 100 kg (220 lb).
They have dense
fleece that ranges from black to brown with sun bleached tips, some silvering
maybe present in older animals. Their wool is medium to fine with excellent
crimp and fiber length. They have a Bradford count of 54-56 and a micron count
of 27 which makes them popular for spinning and felting.
About Zwartbles Sheep
