Suffolk

In the late 18th century local Norfolk landrace ewes were mated to Southdown rams; it has been recognised as a breed since 1810. It belongs to the ‘Down’ breeds, typically with a black or dark head and legs. It spread worldwide in the 19th century and is still one of the most popular and widespread meat breeds.

It has excellent maternal traits, good milk and a prolificacy of 1.6–1.8; part of the Hungarian population also breeds out of season. One of the best grazing breeds, it also copes well with housing, and has good conformation and high lamb growth.

A large, polled sheep; fine, glossy black hair covers the head and legs, and with age white hairs may appear on the nose and lower legs. The ears are large, long and slightly drooping; the body is very long and the thighs full. A closed, white, short and dense fleece covers it, reaching the poll on the neck and the knee or hock on the legs.