[Jacob-list] Two Horned /Four Horned

[Shannon Phifer]

Completely agree Lynette - on all points!  You said it better than I could have 
- thanks :)
 
Shannon Phifer
Kenleigh Acres Farm
www.kenleigh-acres.com
That'll Do Photography
www.thatlldo.photoreflect.com
 




________________________________
From: Lynette Frick <lynettefrick at gmail.com>
To: jacob-list at jacobsheep.com
Sent: Tue, September 28, 2010 10:30:31 PM
Subject: [Jacob-list] Two Horned /Four Horned


Well, on the subject of quality 2 horned sheep selling equal, I do have to admit 
that I personally preferred them, and had several people that wanted them over 
the four horned. I personally liked the "clean" look of the ewes, and the 
challenge of aiming for quality two horned offspring... not an easy feat. I kept 
about equal of both in my flock though, as having the diversity of choice is 
what makes the Jacob sheep unique. From the experience I had with my sheep, I 
saw lots of good four horn sets out of 2x4 crosses in either direction, so 
didn't cull based on number of horns, just quality in either type. I also didn't 
cross 2X4 to improve either type. They just got better as I cleared the lower 
quality out of either. I did have a ram with SUED, and never had any lambs born 
out of 2 horn ewes get SUED. Whereas, when the same ram was used over a four 
horn it displayed every time. Also, got SUED out of a four horn ewe who was 
absolutely clear out of different lineage, crossed with a 2 horn ram with normal 
eyes. So take it as you will? If anybody is interested in my standpoint on 
horns, it would be to pick the strong and clear of either type. As a shearer 
though the two horns do have the bonus of being substancially easier to shear 

:) 


PS. Had some "claw" horned ewes with strong claws give me beautiful sets too. 
Maybe a good percent of the qualityof horns, in 4 horns is in the individuals 
genetics, and the rest is chance.

It's good to see so much healthy debate lately!

Lynette
Four Points Shearing & Sheep Co.
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