What Are Merino Sheep?
Merino sheep are a type of sheep bred primarily for wool. There are several different strands of merino sheep, each with slightly different characteristics. Varieties of the breed are raised all over the world, with significant populations in Australia, New Zealand, and Spain. Spain was once considered the finest producer of merino wool, but high-quality merino sheep are now found in many countries. Like many breeds, merino sheep are usually good foragers. Rams do not often strike, particularly if they are of the Australian poll variety. Merinos also have a very long productive life, sometimes living for up to 12 years. These qualities, among others, make merinos pleasant and profitable to raise on small farms where sufficient attention can be paid to the sheep.
