Castlemilk Moorit sheep are a relatively recently developed breed, having been the legacy of the late Sir Jock Buchanan-Jardine.
Sir Jock developed the breed to graze parkland on his Castlemilk Estate, Dumfrieshire, using Manx Loghtan, Moorit Shetland and wild Mouflon sheep as the base breeds.
Following the death of Sir Jock Buchanan-Jardine in 1970 most of his flock was culled aside from a small number which were dispersed, including some bought by the late Joe Henson. All present day Castlemilk Moorits are descendants of these few surviving sheep.
The breed belongs to the Northern short-tailed primitive group, with ewes always horned and carrying two uniform horns. Rams are also horned, but carry much heavier horns with a single or double curl.
A fine boned breed, the Castlemilk Moorit retains the ‘moorit’ colour in varying shades from dark to mid brown, with face colour varying similarly. All sheep in the breed should carry markings originating from the Mouflon genetics, these being white around the eyes, lower jaw, belly, knees and inside the lower leg and tail.
Fleeces are tight and carry some crimp in longer stapled examples, with typical fleece weight being about 1kg.
This nimble footed breed is carried on small feet and adapts well to most conditions and environments.
Pictures provided by Castlemilk Moorit Sheep Society
For more information visit:
UK - Castlemilk Moorit Sheep Society
http://castlemilkmooritsociety.co.uk/
USA - no association available
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