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Jacob Sheep

Ovis aeris

Class: Mammalia Order: Artiodactyla  Family: Bovidae

Size

Weight (Males): 100-180 lbs
Weight (Females): 80-120 lbs

Lifespan

12-15 years

Diet

Herbivore

Habitat & Range

This domestic species has been bred in the British Isles for many years, but it is believed that they originated in Syria

Interesting Facts

  • Jacob sheep are a domesticated species. They are often considered an heirloom breed that retains much of their original characteristics.
  • Their soft wool has a piebald (black and white spotted) coloration. The skin beneath white patches is pink in color, and the skin under their black wool is black.
  • It is unknown exactly where this breed of sheep was first domesticated. Some speculate that they are originally from Syria, Africa, or even descended from a British species of sheep.
  • Jacob sheep are polycerate meaning multi-horned. They most commonly have either two or four horns, but a Jacob sheep may have as many as six horns. Both males and females have horns, but the males (rams) have much larger horns that the females (ewes).