North of England Mule

This medium- sized crossbred sheep, sired by the Bluefaced Leicester, has a Swaledale or Northumberland type Blackface dam. The latter two breeds are born and reared on the Northern fells and moors and noted for their qualities of hardiness, thriftiness, and longevity. The Mule ewe has the ability to produce and rear prolific crops of lambs under any system.

Lambs from the Mule by a Down or continental type breed of sire give a first class carcass, at 17 to 22 kg (37-48 lbs), ideal for both the UK and continental markets. The fleece of the Mule has a staple length of 10-25 cm (4-10 in) and a Bradford Count of 46's-54's. It is mainly used for the manufacture of knitwear and carpets. The Mule is hornless with a brown/black face, clera of wool, with a tendency towards a "Roman" nose. Ears and legs are white with brown markings. It is the most popular crossbred ewe in the UK.

Breed categories: half-breed, meat / Distribution: United Kingdom