19 breeds of sheep

Press, 6 November 1984, Page 37

19 breeds of sheep

The Canterbury A. and P. show is one of the biggest sheep shows in the world, and this year contains 19 different breeds of sheep. New Zealand has about 27 recognised breeds of sheep and, because of its geographical isolation, is free of many sheep diseases and can export to many countries. Some breeds are almost extinct in other countries so New Zealand has an important role in maintaining these breeds in case they are required for future breeding programmes. One example is the Ryeland, whose numbers have dwindled throughout the world. New Zealand has probably one of the best selections of Ryeland sheep left. The Ryeland is one of the oldest breeds of British sheep, and has been known in Herefordshire for at least 800 years. Although many modifications in type have occured during the years,

the Ryeland remains a good dueLpurpose sheep. The breed has a white face and has good feet which are strongly resistant to footrot. Ryelands were first imported to New Zealand in 1903, and their main role has been as sires and prime lambs. Ryelands were used in the development of the Poll Dorset in Australia, and have been crossed with Merinos and Romneys to produce commercial Halfbred ewes. The Ryeland section has attracted 18 entries at this year’s show, and they will be judged by an Englishman, Mr R. P. Wear, of Rusland Farm, Blagdon, Bristol. Drysdale sheep, developed for their coarse wool used in carpets, will be exhibited at the Canterbury show for the first time. Although the Drysdales will not be taking part in the competitive side of the show, the association will consider creating competition classes in future years if interest continues. Merino sheep always attract a lot of interest, and the association has continued with the custom of obtaining an Australian judge for this section. The show has attracted Merinos from properties ranging from the Wairau Valley, near Blenheim, to Central Otago. The Corriedale is one of the most common breeds of sheep in Canterbury, and

the show always contains an excellent quality line-up of Corriedales. A popular event is the Corriedale Premier Golden Ribbon Ram Hogget Class, and the 12 finalists are usually excellent examples of the breed. The Corriedale section has attracted 269 entries, the largest individual total. An interesting competition in the sheep section will be the Flexinet Trophy for the best woolled woolbreed sheep. Entries in the sheep section total 1482 and are slightly down on last year’s show, probably because the Royal Show this year is being held in Invercargill, rather than a North Island venue. Some breeders, particularly those from southern districts, felt they could not do justice to both Canterbury and the Royal shows, so they have not entered their usual number of sheep at Canterbury.