Meat
AFRINO sheep are valued for their meat quality, which has a uniform fat distribution over the whole body. Afrino sheep earn 80% of their income from meat production and 20% annually from wool production.
Wool
The wool of the AFRINO sheep is similar to the Merino type, with a fibre diameter between 16 and 22 micron. The selection process prioritizes wool quality (micron, crimp definition, clean yield). The Afrino will produce around 20% less wool than a Merino due to the smooth body and bare breech. These traits do save overall annual production costs however as no mulesing is required with Afrinos due to the bare breech and their smooth skin ensures shearing is quicker and easier.
Production and Reproduction
The main goal of the selection program is to improve the total weight of lamb that each ewe can produce in her lifetime, as well as the quality of the lamb. AFRINO ewes are excellent mothers, calm and protective with a high milk yield.
Hardiness and Adaptability
Afrinos are a breed of sheep that can thrive and reproduce in harsh or less-than-ideal conditions. This is a very important trait for any breed that has to face challenges such as drought, disease, or predators. Afrinos have proven their ability to cope with these difficulties and maintain their productivity.
Breed information
As an extensive dual purpose breed the AFRINO is known as a hardy highly adaptable sheep with
good mothering abilities.
This breed has the ability to survive economically within its environment, to maintain its condition.
and to reproduce regularly. It is generally noticeable in its:
- Low mortality.
- Reproduction, high lambing percentage, early sexual maturity and good lambing intervals.
- Growth ability.
- High ewe productivity.
It is important that a balance be kept with regard to all production and reproduction characteristics.
The following data will be taken into consideration when performance testing is done.
- Condition point
- ADG
- Final mass
- Birth status
- Fleece weight index
The following cull faults are directly applicable to the Afrino.
- Stronger than 23 Microns.
- Excessive dewlap.
- Woollen cheeks.
- Small Tuft.
- Harsh Face.
Characteristics that give the AFRINO an advantage in the prime lamb markets:
- Good fat distribution.
- High carcass slaughter percentage.
- High quality meat
The AFRINO’s high fertility gives it the following advantages:
- More lambs for marketing.
- Stricter selection.
- More lambs over the lifetime of the ewe.
- Younger flock.
- AFRINO rams are known for their high Libido.
Bailup Downs Afrinos 