This week's sheep is one of the best known of the 'rare breeds' - so popular again these days, that it could be argued that it is no longer rare. That said, it is still something of a specialist, small-holding flock animal. Many farmers who have commercial flocks will keep a Jacob or a few just for their good looks, placid nature, and pet-quality, suitable for children.
This is one of the world's oldest breeds, and although somewhat hidden in the mists, it is likely to have originated in the Middle East. They found their way to Spain, then to the British Isles, and from there spread across the world. You can read a sweet history on the Jacob Sheep Society site.
In my photo, you will by now be able to determine which is the ewe and which is the ram... not just by the clear difference in size, but by the "tupping" marks on her flank!
Although bred for their meat as much as their wool, the fleece is of high importance and holds up well in the wool markets. Jacob fleeces are among the most desirable for spinners, due to being relatively free of kemp (those prickly, stiff fibres), having a staple length of 75mm to 18Omm (3in to 7in), and good crimp, which results in a yarn with good loft and soft to the hand. Add in the wide variety of colourings from very creamy white all the way through to rich, dark chocolate brown, and there is no need to add any dyes to the fibre to create a wonderful, natural palette. However, should colour wish to be added, due to being low in lanolin, this wool also takes on dye rather well.
Shepherds grow very fond of their Jacob flocks... every one of them has different markings, so individuals are easily identifiable, and it is not uncommon to find they all get their own names, too. Not that many a toughy farm lad will ever admit to that personalisation!
Now, as I leave with Santa contemplating his busy work schedule, let me remind those who like to join in, that next week is also FFF time!
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