The Katahdin is a hair sheep breed. These animals were developed in the State of Maine by Michael Piel. In 1957, he imported three African hair sheep from St. Croix. Piel then began experimenting with various crosses, trying to develop a hair breed with a good confirmation for meat production, high fertility, and good flocking instincts. By the 1970s, Piel achieved the results he desired. He named the breed for Mt. Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine.
Katahdins produce lean meat with a mild flavor, making them tastier than many other types of lamb. They shed their hair thus eliminating the need for shearing. They are hardy, adaptable, and low maintenance. Katahdin sheep are naturally docile and easy to handle. They are medium-sized sheep that have good mothering ability and lamb easily. The ewes are heavy milk producers, and can more than supply twins and triplets with adequate milk. Katahdins have excellent foraging capabilities, and are naturally more resistant to parasites.
Katahdins come in a variety of colors and patterns. They can be solid white, paints, solid dark colors, and everything in between giving an interesting variety to the herd.
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