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Description
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The Berrichon is a large
white faced, medium boned, well fleshed sheep originating from the Cher region of France. It's primary role has been that
of a terminal sire producing quick growing easy fleshed lambs capable of being finished at a range of weights to suit varying
market specifications and demands.
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Traits
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Berrichon breeders have concentrated on breeding sheep which can lamb
easily and are active at birth being quickly on to their feet and suckling. The Berrichon has a triangular shaped head and
is smooth over the shoulder and hip making it an ideal choice for gimmers, ewe hoggs and all first time lambers. The new born
lamb has more wool cover and denser hair on its face ans legs than other continental breeds, and so can withstand the cold
and wet weather.
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Rams
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The rams are very active and capable of serving large numbers of ewes
both under intensive and extensive systems. They are well fleshed all over with deep gigots and as a result of this Berrichon
sired lambs weigh very well.
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Ewes
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The Berrichon ewes can lamb naturally all the year round
and also have the ability to lamb three times in two years under intensive systems. This ability to lamb out of sesaon
has led to the Berrichon being introduced to other breeds to produce cross bred females able to lamb earlier in the season
to capitalise on the normally higher price spring lamb trade. Berrichon ewes are very protective mothers with strong
maternal instincts.
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