Alberta Sheep Breeders' Association

Romney

The Romney is a British longwool sheep that evolved in the low, wet Romney Marsh district of Kent County, in southeast England during the 13th century.  Effectively isolated from other parts of the country for centuries by the Kent Forest, the Romney developed on its own and adapted well to its damp and often harsh environment.  It was exported to New Zealand in 1853 where it flourished and became the most popular breed in the country.  Because of its resistance to footrot and internal parasites, the Romney has become popular in the wet coastal regions of British Columbia in Canada.

The lambs are large and lean and convert feed very well.   They are not a competitive sheep when mixed with commercial breeds, but are docile and easily managed.  Romney wool is in demand with hand spinners who pay a premium for the fleece.