St. Croix Characteristics

Like most sheep breeders, we want to raise animals that are hearty, healthy and marketable. We have had experience with both wool sheep and hair sheep that have demonstrated unacceptable health and disposition problems. Ongoing research led us to St. Croix sheep, described by one enthusiastic breeder as "bullet-proof." Our own experience has supported that claim. St. Croix are vigorous, highly reproductive, and pleasant to work with. Here are some characteristics that might interest you:

• Mild, fine-grained, low-fat meat
• Superior parasite resistance
• Crossbreeding with St. Croix increases parasite tolerance in other breeds
• Hoof rot tolerant
• Adaptable in variety of climates: tolerate heat and humidity as well as cold weather
• No tail docking necessary
• No shearing
• Mild dispositions
• Naturally polled (no horns)


• Reproductive benefits:
• Early puberty and long reproductive life
• Ewes can breed at any time during year
• Few birthing problems
• Ewes can have 3 lamb crops in two years
• 50-75% multiple birth rate
• Lambing rate of 195-200%
• Ewes are outstanding mothers
• Valued for crossbreeding for commercial butcher lamb production
• Good flocking tendencies make them valuable for training herding dogs
• Grazing habits make St. Croix good for weed control
• For more information about St. Croix

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