Education Research Sheep California Reds

California Reds ; Wool Educational Material for the Clothing Industry

Education

Research

The educational information listed in this section has graciously been provided by the American Sheep Industry Association

Hair and Double-Coated Breeds: California Reds

MATURE BODY WEIGHT

Ram 175-220 lb.
Ewe 120-150 lb.

AVERAGE FIBER DIAMETER

Micron 31-28
Spinning Count 54-50

GREASE FLEECE WEIGHT

Ewe 5-7 lb.

YIELD

50%

STAPLE LENGTH

3-5"

California Reds originated in 1970 at the University of California at Davis and are a cross between Tunis and Barbados breeds. They are almost deer-like in appearance but respond very well to quite handling. They have a gentle disposition and are good mothers and milkers. The lambs are born all red but change in color as adults. Mature California Reds turn a light tan color but retain the red color on their legs and head. Rams possess a full mane of hair growing down the chest and are hornless.

Dual Purpose Breeds

Wool Definition