Debouillet sheep are a sheep developed in arid conditions near Tatum, in New Mexico, and are a cross between Rambouillet sheep and Delaine-Merino sheep. They are a white, domestic sheep of medium size, and are known for producing quality wool.
This article will present the history of the Debouillet sheep, their breed attributes, and examine the characteristics of their fine wool in detail. You’ll also discover the positive attributes and benefits of raising Debouillet sheep on your farm.
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Where Does The Debouillet Sheep Come From?
This breed was first introduced in 1920 when breeders were seeking to produce breeds of livestock specifically for the dry range conditions of the Southwestern United States.
A rancher named Amos Dee Jones is famous for raising sheep of high quality and is responsible for first breeding the Debouillet in New Mexico from wooled sheep flocks he obtained in Ohio.
According to Oklahoma State University Animal Science department, the Debouillet is a hardy sheep, that can be adapted for unassisted lambing in the field and produces beautiful wool.
While still a rare breed in the sheep industry, the Debouillet is a great choice for new farmers, as they are easily bred and good-natured, while also producing a high-quality and profitable product.
Debouillet Sheep Breed Characteristics
The Debouillet breed is a medium-sized white wool breed and has a white face and white hair on its legs. Wool covers every area of the body aside from the legs and face.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Origin | Tatum, New Mexico |
| Appearance | The Debouillet breed is a medium sized white wool breed and has a white face and white hair on its legs. Wool covers every area of the body aside from the legs and face. Debouillet ewes are always polled, but Debouillet rams may or may not have horns. |
| Wool | Micron range from 18 to 22 Wool grade is between 64s to 80s Staple length between 3 and 5 inches Grease fleece weight of 9.5 to 14 pounds Yield between 35 to 55 percent |
| Weight | Rams weigh between 175 to 250 pounds Ewes weigh between 125 to 160 pounds |
| Fertility | Naturally fertile and easy lambing |
| Meat | Average |
| Environment | Does best in arid conditions. Debouillet sheep naturally flock together in large groups, with an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. |
| Common Uses | Wool production predominantly |
What Kind Of Fleece Does The Debouillet Sheep Produce?
The Debouillet produces high-quality, fine wool that has a natural crimp. It has a high lanolin content that needs to be processed out before the wool can be used.
Why Should I Raise Debouillet Sheep?
There are many reasons why you should consider raising Debouillet Sheep on your sheep farm:
- Well suited to arid range conditions of Texas and New Mexico
- A gregarious breed that naturally flocks together
- Produces excellent quality fleece
- The staple length of the fleece allows for all kinds of weaving
- The docile personality of Debouillet sheep allows for easy handling
- Great breed of domestic sheep for beginners looking to raise American sheep
- Lambing is done with ease and requires little human intervention