National LiveStock Development Board -NLDB Sheep Breeds

Available Sheep Breeds in

National Livestock Development Board

Red Madras (Madras Red)

Origin: The Madrass Red breed, also known as the Madras Red, originated in the Chennai (formerly Madras) region of Tamil Nadu, India.

Characteristics: Madrass Red sheep are primarily raised for meat production. They are medium-sized sheep with a distinctive reddish-brown coat, although some may have white markings on their faces or bodies. They are hardy animals well-adapted to the hot and dry climatic conditions of the region. Madrass Red sheep are known for their good growth rate and the quality of their meat, which is tender and has a desirable flavor. They are often raised in small herds by local farmers in semi-arid and arid regions.

Bannur (Mandya)

Origin: The Bannur breed, also known as Mandya, originates from the Mandya district in the state of Karnataka, India.

Characteristics: Bannur sheep are a popular meat breed in India, particularly known for their tender and flavorful meat. They are medium to large-sized sheep with a white coat and a compact, well-muscled body. Bannur sheep have a good growth rate and are usually fattened for meat production. The breed is well-suited to the local environment and is known for its hardiness and adaptability to the semi-arid conditions of Karnataka. Bannur sheep are often raised in traditional farming systems, where they graze on natural pastures.

Australian White

Origin: The Australian White sheep breed was developed in Australia in the early 2000s.

Characteristics: The Australian White is a relatively new breed developed for meat production, particularly suited to modern, intensive farming practices. It is a composite breed, created by crossing Dorper, White Dorper, Van Rooy, and Poll Dorset sheep. Australian White sheep are medium to large-sized, with a white coat that does not require shearing, making them low-maintenance compared to traditional wool breeds. They are known for their fast growth rates, excellent carcass quality, and high meat yield. The breed is highly adaptable to a wide range of climates, from temperate to arid regions, and is resistant to many common sheep diseases. They are popular in Australia and are gaining recognition in other countries for their ease of management and profitability in meat production.

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