Suffolks

Suffolks are a breed of domestic sheep originating in the county of Suffolk in the northeast of England. Developed in the early 19th century by crossing the old English horned sheep with Norfolk horned sheep, they are now one of the most popular breeds of sheep globally, particularly valued for their rapid growth and excellent carcass quality.

Suffolk sheep are easily identifiable by their distinctive appearance. They are medium to large in size with a lean, muscular build. Their most notable characteristic is their black, wool-less head and legs, which contrasts sharply with their white fleece. This black pigmentation is thought to confer some resistance to sunburn and flystrike. They are known for their docile temperament, making them relatively easy to handle.

The breed is highly sought after by commercial lamb producers due to its prolificacy and the excellent quality of its meat. Suffolk lambs reach market weight quickly, and the resulting carcasses are lean with a good distribution of meat. They are also adaptable to various farming systems, from intensive confinement to extensive grazing. Suffolks are also used in crossbreeding programs to impart their desirable traits to other breeds. Their popularity has led to their establishment in numerous countries around the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand.