Wiltipolls

Wiltipoll sheep have been developed in Australia over the last 20 years to create a polled variety of the self-shedding Wiltshire Horn suitable for heavy lamb production.    Because they don’t grow wool, their energy is directed to growing meat and milk.   Compared with other sheep, the Wiltipoll is a prolific breeder and unlike many other sheep breeds, twins, triplets and even quadruplets are common. Ewes will only breed once a year and because they are seasonal breeders, we can leave the ram in with the ewes.  This  makes them even more convenient as we don’t need a separate paddock for the ram and he can run with them for 2 years.  Wiltipolls are very docile compared to the other popular shedders like the independently minded Dorpers.   Apparently the sheep will eat out of your hand and don’t require dogs for herding.  I am hoping this is the case and am going to feed them with a bucket twice a day while they settle in.