Katahdins.
Katahdins originated in the Katahdin mountains of Maine where they were bred specifically for their easy maintenance. These hair sheep do not need the sheering and docking that wool breeds require. Instead, Katahdins get a bit fluffy in the winter and shed clean in the summer. This gives them adaptability in crazy Kentucky weather.
Gestation for sheep is five months, and they often have multiples. This allows for ample reproduction rates, typically 200%. The ewes rarely require lambing assistance and always give birth on our pasture. Again, relatively low maintenance.
Additionally, this breed is quite parasite resistant, and their hooves only require annual trimmings.
Breeding Stock.
One of our favorite parts of having sheep is watching them mother. Even with first-time moms, they have natural instincts to nurture and protect; they are surprisingly scrappy. While we’ve had a handful of bottle lambs, we’ve discovered that Katahdin ewes have a distinct ability to deliver, nurse, and defend their offspring with little interference from us. What more could a farmer want from their livestock?
If you’re just getting into sheep or simply looking to expand your flock, we’d love to help you out. Our lambs are weaned at 90 days old and ready to find a new home shortly after. Our ewes are currently on two different lambing cycles, so we will have both ewe and ram lambs available periodically throughout the year.
All of our ewes are bred by RR Katahdin rams registered with Katahdin Hair Sheep International. While Lost Oak primarily runs commercial Katahdin ewes, a small portion of our ewes are also registered. Depending upon your needs, we can supply commercial or registered lambs, with an additional option of QR or RR genetics from our registered lambs.
STEP 1: Send us your lamb needs! This can include preferences in genetics (commercial or registered), gender, coloring, size, etc.
STEP 2: We will respond promptly with current and/or future availability, as well as pricing on your preferred lambs.
STEP 3: Once we decide on the perfect set of lambs for YOU, we will arrange an on-farm pick up or delivery once the lambs have reached sale weight.
STEP 4: Enjoy your Katahdins as they develop into successful producers!
