The Awassi Sheep is a world-renowned, multi-purpose breed originating from the Fertile Crescent region of the Middle East, primarily found in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Israel. This ancient breed is highly valued for its exceptional milk production, resilience in harsh climates, and its distinctive large fat tail, which serves as an energy reserve in arid environments.
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Breed Overview
- Breed Name: Awassi Sheep
- Origin: Middle East (Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel)
- Primary Purpose: Milk, meat, and wool
- Type: Fat-tailed sheep
- Temperament: Hardy, docile, and adaptable
- Climate Tolerance: Excellent resistance to heat and drought
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Milk Production
Awassi ewes are famous for their rich, high-fat milk, which is often used in the production of premium cheeses and yogurt such as Jameed and Labneh. They can produce between 300–600 liters of milk per lactation, depending on diet and management. The milk’s high butterfat content (about 6–8%) makes it one of the most sought-after sheep milks worldwide.
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Meat Quality
The Awassi produces tender, flavorful meat with a distinctive taste prized in Middle Eastern cuisine. The fat tail, weighing up to 10–15 pounds, is traditionally used for cooking and adds a unique flavor to regional dishes. Lambs reach market weight quickly, making this breed both economically efficient and versatile.
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Wool Characteristics
Their wool is coarse and carpet-grade, primarily used in rugs, blankets, and traditional textiles. While not a fine-wool breed, it’s durable and suited for heavy-use fabric production.
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Adaptability and Hardiness
Awassi Sheep are exceptionally hardy, thriving in semi-arid and desert conditions. They can walk long distances to graze, tolerate extreme heat, and survive on sparse vegetation where other breeds would struggle. Their natural disease resistance and ability to convert poor forage into quality meat and milk make them ideal for both small-scale and commercial operations.
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Physical Characteristics
- Weight: Rams 180–200 lbs (82–90 kg), Ewes 120–150 lbs (55–68 kg)
- Color: Usually white body with a brown face and legs
- Tail: Large and fat, distinctive of the breed
- Horns: Males usually horned; females may be polled or lightly horned
- Body: Deep-chested, long-bodied, and strong-legged
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Temperament and Management
Awassi are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them easy to handle. They adapt well to both extensive grazing systems and intensive farm management, and their ewes are excellent mothers with strong maternal instincts and high lamb survival rates.
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Why Choose Awassi Sheep
- High milk yield with rich butterfat
- Hardy and heat-tolerant
- Dual-purpose (meat and milk)
- Docile and manageable temperament
- Ideal for dry climates and low-input systems
Whether you’re a commercial dairy farmer, homesteader, or breeder seeking a robust, high-yielding sheep, the Awassi is an outstanding choice known for its heritage, productivity, and adaptability.
| Choose an option | Young ewes (12-24months old), Middle-aged ewes (5-6years old, Ewes (over 6years old |
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