Article Info

Article Title
Sheep on the Edge: Florida Cracker
Author
Amy Manko
Issue date
Summer 2019
Issue number
25
Description
The journey to study Florida Cracker sheep began when the author acquired a flock that included the rare breed, starting with the purchase of a sheep named Babette. These sheep, descended from Spanish Churra sheep brought to Florida in the 1500s, have adapted to the harsh climate and developed unique traits, including resistance to parasites and the ability to breed year-round. Today, the breed is critically endangered, with efforts focused on preserving its genetic lines and improving fleece quality, even as development pressures threaten their traditional grazing lands.
Article topic list
breed-focus, rare breeds, Florida Cracker