The Suffolk sheep is a breed of domestic sheep from United Kingdom. It was originally developed in England as the result of crossing Southdown rams on Norfolk Horned ewes.
The result of this cross was an improvement over both parent sheep breeds. It is a black faced, and open faced breed and it is raised mainly for meat production.
The Suffolk a recognized breed as early as 1810, and the flock book was not closed until much later.
The English Suffolk Society was organized in 1886 for providing registry service and for further developing the use of the breed. Read some more information about this breed below.
Suffolk Sheep Full Breed Information
The Suffolk is a common and popular breed of domestic sheep which is found in many countries around the world, but originated from the United Kingdom. It is a pretty old breed which was originated in the late 18th Century. However, here we are describing more information about this breed including physical characteristics, uses etc.
Physical Characteristics
Suffolk sheep are among the large sheep breeds. They have black faces and legs. Their frame is large and they are usually highly muscular. Both rams and ewes are polled.
Average live body weight of the mature Suffolk rams is between 110 and 160 kg. And average live body weight of the mature ewes vary from 80 to 120 kg. Photo and info from Wikipedia.
Uses
Suffolk sheep is raised mainly for meat production. But it is also good for milk and wool production purposes.
Special Notes
The Suffolks are very strong and hardy sheep. They are raised mainly for meat production, and also good for the production of milk and wool.
Fleece weights from mature ewes are between 2.3 and 3.6 kg, with yield of 50 to 62 percent. The fleeces are considered medium wool in type, with a fiber diameter of 25.5 to 33 microns, and spinning count of 48 to 58. Spider lamb syndrome is most common in the Suffolk breed.
The ewes are excellent mothers, and they take good care of their kids. However, review full breed profile of the Suffolk sheep breed in the following chart.
| Breed Name | Suffolk |
| Other Name | None |
| Breed Purpose | Meat, wool |
| Special Notes | Very hardy and strong animals, ewes are good mothers, dual purpose, good for both meat and wool production |
| Breed Size | Large |
| Weight | Mature rams weight around 110 to 160 kg, and average live body weight of the mature ewes vary from 80 to 160 kg. |
| Horns | No |
| Climate Tolerance | Native climates |
| Color | White |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | United Kingdom |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Suffolk is a common and popular breed of domestic sheep which is found in many countries around the world, but originated from the United Kingdom. It is a pretty old breed which was originated in the late 18th Century. People are asking some questions about this British sheep breed. However, here we are trying to list the most common questions and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
Is Suffolk sheep farming a profitable business?
YES! Commercial production of these animals is profitable. Suffolks are very good and known for producing high quality meat. If you have good facilities for marketing meat, then commercial Suffolk sheep farming will be a profitable business for you.
How to start Suffolk sheep farming business?
Starting a Suffolk sheep farming business is just like starting a sheep farming business with any other sheep breeds. Purchase good quality sheep, make a good house for them, feed them good quality foods, vaccinate them timely and always try to take good care of them.
What are Suffolk sheep known for?
Suffolks are prolific, early maturing sheep with excellent mutton carcasses. But they are mainly known for their excellent meat quality. The breed is also good for milk and wool production purposes.
Where did Suffolk sheep originate from?
Suffolks were originated from the United Kingdom in the late of 18th century.
What are the characteristics of Suffolk sheep?
Large size, upstanding, long body, black face, black and long ears are the main physical characteristics of this breed.
Are Suffolk sheep used for meat or wool?
The Suffolks are well known mainly for producing high quality meat. Their wool can contain some black fibers and not of very high quality.
What does Suffolk sheep produce.
The Suffolks are kept mainly for their good quality meat. They also produce plenty of milk.
Are the female Suffolks easy to lamb?
YES! They have wide pelvic dimensions which makes lambing easy.
Is the Suffolk breed of sheep friendly?
YES! They are extremely friendly and have unique personalities. They are also very good for raising as pets.
Can Suffolk sheep be milked?
YES, sure! The Suffolks can produce good amount of milk if you take proper care of them.
What is Suffolk wool good for?
The Suffolk fiber or wool is considered to be a down type of wool. It is generally used for making socks, pillow stuffing, quilt batting etc.
What is the difference between Suffolk and Hampshire sheep?
As one of the larger breeds, the Hampshire is easy to distinguish from Suffolks by their black legs and faces. What is this? Unlike the Suffolk, Hampshires have some wool on their heads and legs and this breed should display a solid topknot of unbroken wool.
Are Suffolk sheep horned or polled?
Polled. Both rams and ewes are horn-less.
How big do Suffolk sheep get?
Mature weight for Suffolk rams range from 110-160, ewe weights vary from 80-120 kg.
How about the Suffolk’s parasite resistant?
Parasitic resistance of the Suffolks may be improved through systematic crossbreeding of these two breeds, and other breeds may be able to be crossbred or backcrossed to the Florida Native to improve their resistance.
Is Suffolk wool good for spinning?
YES!
What Micron is Suffolk wool?
25-33 microns.
What are white Suffolk sheep used for?
White Suffolk sheep are used mainly for meat production.
Are Suffolk lambs born black?
YES, most of the Suffolk lambs are born black, but will eventually grow white wool.
How long do a Suffolk sheep live?
Average lifespan of a Suffolk sheep is between 11 and 13 years.
How much do Suffolk sheep cost?
Average price of a young Suffolk range from $100 to $300, and a ewe will cost you between $300 and $500. Breeding ram are highly valuable, and their price can vary from $1000 to several thousand dollars. Please visit your local classified websites for more information about price and the breed’s availability.
