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Merino Sheep

In Australia, no breed is more prolific than Merinos. Purebred Merinos make up 80 percent of the total sheep population in the country, with different strains of Merino distributed throughout Australia.

Merino sheep originally come from Spain. There are thought to be three Merino breeds that constituted the foundation stock for most of the world's Merino flocks; the Royal Escurial, the Negretti and the Paula. Before the 1700's, it was illegal to export Merino sheep from Spain. After the turn of the 18th century however, stock was exported to other European countries. Gradually, Merinos were imported to other continents, heavily influencing the development of other breeds along the way.

Merino sheep are primarily distinguished by the quality of the wool they provide. Many deem it to be the finest and softest wool available in the market. Both horned and polled strains exist, depending on the preference of the breeder. Ultra-fine Merino wool is ideal for blending with other exclusive fibres such as silk and cashmere. Medium merino wool is the most common in Australia and is suitable for light suiting and knitwear. Strong Merino wool is usually blended with polyester and other acrylic fabrics for the manufacturing of middle-weight suiting and automobile and aircraft seating. Merino sheep are known for their foraging abilities and adaptability. As they are bred primarily for wool, their carcase tends to be smaller in size than those sheep bred for meat. Merino sheep produce a fine, crimped, soft wool, typically less than 24 microns.

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