SHEEP
Katahdin hair sheep
Our Katahdins are famous! They are known for hardy lambs, strong resistance to parasites, high fertility, and other great qualities. But the most interesting fact? Katahdin sheep have no wool.
Sheep on Footehills farm
No shearing allowed
The Katahdin is a breed of domestic sheep developed in Maine, United States and named after Mount Katahdin – the state’s highest peak. The breed was developed during in the second half of the 20th century by crossing selected St. Croix sheep from the Virgin Islands with various other breeds, including the Suffolk.
The Katahdin sheds its winter coat, and so does not have to be sheared. The breed originated at the Piel Farm in north central Maine where Michael Piel was an innovator and amateur geneticist who enjoyed raising livestock.
The goal was to produce a “meat sheep that did not require shearing.” Piel selected from his large flock approximately 120 of the best ewes and called them “Katahdin” sheep after Mt. Katahdin, the highest peak in the state of Maine.
At Footehills Farm, farm-animal welfare is our priority. We are leaders in the growing trend towards raising farm animals humanely. It isn’t the easiest way to raise food-based and farm animals. It’s the right way.
Sheep on Footehills farm
Animal welfare
Come for a visit
Most of our “sheep time” is spent managing our pastures so that we can provide our animals with the best quality forage possible. Fenced areas are moved around our grass-rich fields every two weeks. The low maintenance qualities of Katahdins allow us the time provide the best possible living environment.
Premium meat
Lamb meat isn’t only a delicacy. Lamb is a high-quality protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids your body needs for growth and maintenance.