Suffolk Sheep

Looks how to spot one

wool

The Suffolk has a white, medium-wool fleece that is moderately short and dense, with a fibre diameter around 24 to 33 microns. The face and legs are bare and black, and the sheep is naturally polled (hornless). The body is large, long and thickset with smooth shoulders.135

Personality what they are like

Suffolk sheep are alert and quick to learn, but they settle down easily once they get used to you. Ewes are generally more manageable than rams. In small hobby flocks their individual personalities shine, and they can be led around with a bucket of food. They are not aggressive and are considered quiet for a large breed.3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Suffolks need plenty of space to graze and roam. A hobby flock of 5 to 7 sheep per hectare (2 to 3 per acre) is recommended without extra feeding. They prefer short grass and will happily explore a paddock or pasture. Daily hand feeding can be used to keep them tame, but they still need room to exercise.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Shearing is needed once a year, which can be costly if you only have a few sheep. Worming twice a year is recommended, and lambs should have their tails docked to prevent fly strike. Hooves may need trimming occasionally. The clean face and legs help reduce fly problems, and the breed is less prone to internal parasites than some others.3

Home where they are happiest

Suffolks are hardy and can live on pasture, hay, or even sparse scrubby land as long as their nutritional needs are met. They need shelter from extreme weather, such as a simple field shelter or barn. Fencing must be secure to keep them in and predators out. They are not illegal to keep in most countries, but local zoning and livestock regulations should always be checked.34

Food basics what goes in the bowl

As herbivores, Suffolks eat grass, hay, leaves and scrub. Good pasture is ideal, but hay and a small amount of commercial sheep grain can supplement when grass is sparse. Fresh water must always be available.4

Company who they like around

Sheep are flock animals and should never be kept alone. A pair or small group is essential for their wellbeing. Suffolks get on well with other sheep and can be kept with other livestock if introduced carefully. They are not venomous, not protected, and legal to keep in most places, but always check local livestock laws.3

The story where it all began

The Suffolk breed was developed in the late 1700s around Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, England. It came from crossing Norfolk Horn ewes with Southdown rams. The Norfolk Horn contributed hardiness and meat flavour, while the Southdown gave a calm temperament and good body shape. At first they were called Blackfaces or Southdown-Norfolks. The name Suffolk was first recorded in 1797 by agricultural writer Arthur Young. The breed was recognised as distinct by 1810, and the Suffolk Sheep Society was formed in 1886. Suffolks quickly became the leading terminal sire breed in the UK and are now found worldwide. They are still prized for their fast growth, easy lambing and excellent meat.216

Recognised by the official bits

Suffolk Sheep Society

Breed society formed in 1886; first flock book published in 18872