How to Identify Romney Sheep

While most people can tell you that a sheep goes "baa," few can point out the subtle differences among the many varieties of this animal. The Romney, a native of England and eventually New Zealand, is a well-loved member of this furry, four-legged species. Read on to learn how to identify Romney Sheep.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look for sheep that are tan or light brown in color. Note that the most commonly raised Romney sheep have sandy wool, which can occasionally appear gray or cream-colored.

2. Spot a black sheep. Some breeders raise natural-colored Romneys, which will appear black or very dark brown in color.

3. Find a full head of curly, shiny fleece from head to toe. Romney sheep have bushy and healthy-looking fleece. You won't find mangled fur on these animals; the fleece hangs in separate locks, so it's rare to find knots.

4. Observe how the fleece covers the sheep. Romney sheep, both black and tan, have long faces that are framed by their bushy coats. Be aware that in some breeds the fleece also tends to cover the entire length of their legs. Other breeds have bare legs.

5. Check out the feet. A Romney's hooves are almost always clean and healthy-looking because this breed originated in the harsh climate of the British countryside. As a result, most Romneys have a resistance to foot rot (a common problem among sheep).

6. Search for horns and a topknot. Neither male nor female Romney sheep have horns; however, many Romneys have small tufts of hair on the top of their heads, called topknots.

Tips & Warnings

• Weight is difficult to assess at first glance, but full-grown Romney males are usually between 225 and 275 lb., and adult females weigh between 150 and 200 lb.