Oxford Down
Appearance: The Oxford Down is the largest and heaviest of the Down breeds. It is a bold, large-framed, upstanding sheep, with blocky conformation and a broad, deep body of good length. The poll is well covered with wool, and adorned by a ‘top-knot’ and the face is a uniform dark colour.
History: The breed was developed in and around Witney, Oxfordshire, as a result of crossing Cotswold males with Hampshire Down and Southdown females in the 1830s. The Oxford Down Sheep Breeders Association was established in 1889.
Geography: Oxford Down flocks are found throughout the British Isles with a concentration in the Midlands.
Breed attributes: Oxford Downs are noted for fast growth and early maturity. Oxford lamb has excellent eating quality, with flavour and tenderness greatly enhanced by a degree of marbling. Oxford ewes will naturally breed early in the season and are generally good lambers with a strong maternal instinct. The breed is hardy and healthy, with scrapie virtually unknown, and has very good, hard feet. Oxfords clip a heavy fleece producing wool of close texture, good staple and fine quality.
Commercial desirability: The Oxford Down Sheep Breeders Association promotes strong and bold sheep, stating that when used as a terminal sire on any commercial ewe breed or cross, the Oxford ram will produce high quality, hardy, fast-growing lambs that are easily finished off grass alone. Oxford cross lambs have an outstanding capacity for early maturity and will typically produce 18-22kg carcases at 12-16 weeks. Alternatively, lambs can be kept on to heavier weights (22-25kg) without excess fat, producing high quality large, lean lambs or heavy hoggs. Oxford cross lambs are vigorous and active at birth and display considerable hardiness due to their good wool cover from birth and good birthweight.
More information on the Oxford Down Sheep Breeders Association website