The Gaddi sheep is a breed of domestic sheep native to India. It is one of the 8 different sheep breeds found in the northern temperate area of India. It is raised mainly for wool production.
The breed is mainly distributed in Kistwar and Bhadarwah tehsils in Jammu province of Jammu & Kashmir, Ramnagar, Udampur and Kullu and Kangra valleys of Himachal Pradesh and Dehradun. Nainital, Tehri-Garhwal and Chamoli districts of Uttar Pradesh. Read some more information about this Indian sheep breed bellow.
Gaddi Sheep Characteristics
The Gaddi sheep is considered as a medium sized animal. It is generally uncolored and white, although it is occasionally can be found in mixed tan, black and brown color.
The rams are horned, and their horns are usually large. But the ewes are usually polled, and are found only 10-15 percent horned.
Tail of the Gaddi sheep is small and thin, and the ears are short. Average body height of the mature animals is around 56 cm at the withers. And average live body weight of the mature animals is around 26 kg. Photo and info from Wikipedia.
Uses
The Gaddi sheep is a wool sheep breed. It is raised mainly for wool production.
Special Notes
The Gaddi sheep are hardy animals, and they are well adapted to their local climates. Lambs are usually hardy, and they weight around 2.5 kg at birth.
And there is no difference in average birth weight between ewes and rams. They are usually strong, and are good climbers. Fleece of these animals is fine and can grow up to 5cm length.
The fleece is clip 3 times a year, and average yield is 1-1.5 kg per year. And the wool is usually used for making shawls and blankets. However, review full breed profile of the Gaddi sheep in the following chart.
| Breed Name | Gaddi |
| Other Name | None |
| Breed Purpose | Mainly wool |
| Special Notes | Very hardy and strong animals, well adapted to local climates, lambs are generally hardy, good climbers, fine quality fleece, produce 1-1.5 kg fleece per year, the wool is used for making shawls and blankets |
| Breed Size | Small to medium |
| Weight | Around 26 kg |
| Horns | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | Native climates |
| Color | White |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | India |
