Horro sheep

Description

The natural habitats of Horro sheep are the western and southwestern parts of the country. The Horro sheep is widely distributed in areas covering western Shoa to East and West Wollega, Illubabor and Jimma zones of Oromia Region. These areas lie between 35 and 38 E longitudes and 6 and 10 N latitudes. Altitude of the area ranges 1400- 2000 m.a.s.l.. Mean annual precipitation is between 1000 and 1400 mm. The vegetation of the habitat ranges from broadleaf savannas to woodland and open wooded grassland to forest types.

The predominant color of Horro sheep is a solid tan (light brown). Other colors observed are creamy white, dark brown, and sometimes black and spotted. The body is covered with short, shiny hair. The face profile is straight with a somewhat convex appearance in males. Both rams and ewes are hornless.

Horro sheep have a relatively long neck without a dewlap but most have fat deposits below the lower jaw and in the brisket. Wattles are rarely present. The fat tail is triangular with a relatively narrow base and pointed end which hangs downward sometimes with a slight twist, mostly reaching just below the hocks. The rams usually have a mane between the head and brisket and above the neck and shoulder.

Horro sheep are larger than most other indigenous sheep having a mean height of 73 cm and 68 cm at the shoulders for adult rams and ewes, respectively. Horro sheep weigh 2.8-2.9 kg, 13-15 kg and 25-33.5 kg at birth, weaning (90 days), and one year of age, respectively. Ewe mature weight is about 38.2 kg. Twin hirth are common, sometimes reaching 60% in older (multiparous) ewes. Horro sheep are not only larger compared with other indigenous breeds but also seem to be more prolific.