Why Harlequins?

Harlequin sheep by breed standard are no more than 24" at the shoulder. Their mature weight ranges from 80-120 lbs. All are naturally hornless and require no facial wool trimming. Ewes make excellent mothers and often have multiple lambs each lambing over many years. Both rams and ewes have calm dispositions and are generally good-natured. Most carry the blue-eyed gene and blue eyes can be partial or full. 

The lifespan of Harlequin sheep is anywhere from ten to fifteen years. They are hardy sheep and not subject to common illnesses such as foot rot.  When pastured well, they are also fairly worm resistant. Routine care is a CDT shot once a year, regular worm load monitoring, shearing once a year and a hoof trim every 3-6 months.

Wool can have fancy spots or plain brown with black legs and face. You may also find full or mostly white Harlequins. No matter the wool color; plain or fancy spots, offspring will likely revert to fancy spots. In order to increase the gene pool, some breeders have crossbred to Babydoll Southdowns with Harleys.. The resulting lambs are usually brown (black) and often have a white spot on their heads, necks or chests. It's interesting to note that when bred, these single color Harleys throw fancy spotted lambs. Once thing is for sure: you never know what you are going to get with Harlequin mini sheep!

Whether you're looking for a quirky little livestock pet, or a rare "status" breed, Harlequins could be the hobby farm sheep for you!