Vendéen

The local population was improved in the 17th century by crossing with Dutch and Flemish breeds, then in the 19th century with the English Southdown, improving meat while keeping good prolificacy. Today about 250,000 head live in France, mostly in the west and the Massif Central.

A sturdy single-purpose meat breed that tolerates both hot summers and cold winters; as a sire line it improves daily gain, feed conversion and meat-to-bone ratio. Ewes tend to breed out of season, with a prolificacy of 1.7–1.9; it can live on pasture until snowfall and is undemanding about winter housing.

A medium-sized breed with medium-fine bone, a compact head and broad forehead, polled in both sexes. The head is covered with fine light or pale-brown hair, and the ears are carried sideways. The wool is white or light brown and the skin pigmented brown; a deep brisket and well-muscled rump and shoulder are typical. Ewes weigh 60–80 kg and rams 100–120 kg.