St. Croix Crossed Parasite Resistant Ewe and Ram Lambs

We have never wormed our St. Croix sired sheep since we started with them 16 years ago. To create a parasite resistant herd, only ewes that demonstrated resistance have been allowed to …

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St Croix Sheep Breed Information, History & Facts - SheepCaretaker

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Aug 5, 2022 · The average gestation period for ewes is 150 days. The reproductive rate ranges from 150% to 200%. Ewes ovulate all year round, so St. Croix hair sheep breeders can expect …

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FAQs about St. Croix Crossed Parasite Resistant Ewe and Ram Lambs Coupon?

Why are St Croix sheep resistant to parasites?

Their successful mechanism of defense is to allow adult parasites to reproduce for a longer period and then eliminate the larvae. "The climate definitely contributed to each breed’s type of resistance,” Bowdridge explained. “Where St. Croix sheep developed, they would have been exposed to larvae year-round. ...

Can St Croix sheep be crossbreeded?

"The St. Croix have shown resistance to parasites, they don't have wool, and they're very tolerant of the heat. These animals could be used in a sheep crossbreeding program as a good alternative livestock operation for the midsouth producer with smaller available acreage and less resources to invest than a cattle operation requires." ...

Do You worm your St Croix sired sheep?

We have never wormed our St. Croix sired sheep since we started with them 16 years ago. To create a parasite resistant herd, only ewes that demonstrated resistance have been allowed to stay on the farm. This culling process was extremely tough on our initial flock. ...

Are St. Croix hair sheep traits inherited?

The traits of St. Croix Hair Sheep are inherited from the foundation animals in the breed. St. Croix Hair Sheep offer parasite resistance, no shearing, year-round fertility, and more. Why choose St. Croix? ...

Are St. Croix sheep heat-tolerant?

St. Croix sheep are heat-tolerant because they have a hair coat instead of wool. They also adjust well to cold temperatures. This breed of sheep is not used for wool production and is known for its heat tolerance, fly strike resistance, parasite resistance, and hoof rot resistance. ...

What are the advantages of St Croix sheep?

St. Croix sheep offer other advantages to the small-scale farmer, says Brown. Earlier ARS studies at Beltsville, Maryland, have shown the breed is more resistant than other sheep to nematode parasites. These stomach worms cost U.S. sheep farmers an estimated $45 million annually. ...