Helping My Katahdin Hair Sheep Ram Shed its Winter Coat

In this video my mother helps my ram sheep shed its winter coat, which is a common process for Katahdin hair sheep in the spring. Unlike traditional wool sheep, the Katahdin sheds its winter coat naturally, eliminating the need for shearing and making it a cost-effective option for commercial shepherds.

The Katahdin sheep breed have an average weight of 120 to 160 pounds for ewes and 180 to 250 pounds for rams, with most ewes having a 200% lamb crop. Unlike many other breeds, the Katahdin sheep sheds its winter coat and does not require shearing. This breed is primarily valued for production rather than appearance, with hair that can come in a range of colors. When Katahdins are crossed with wool sheep, their offspring tend to have a wool coat with some hair mixed in.

In recent years, the popularity of the Katahdin breed has increased in the US, likely due to low wool prices and high shearing costs. Additionally, these sheep are known for their resistance to parasites, a trait inherited from their St. Croix ancestors. As a result, Katahdin sheep are a highly productive and cost-effective option for commercial shepherds.