What is the Lincoln Longwool breed?

The Lincoln Longwool is an old British breed of domestic sheep, recognized as the largest sheep breed in the United Kingdom. It was specifically developed for wool production.

What are the defining characteristics of Lincoln Longwool sheep's fleece?

The fleece of the Lincoln Longwool is known for being coarse, wavy, lustrous, and notably long. It grows in broad staples that separate easily, and the breed holds the record for the heaviest fleece ever recorded from a ram.

How has the Lincoln Longwool breed impacted sheep husbandry internationally?

Many Lincoln Longwool sheep have been exported globally, particularly during the twentieth century. The breed has influenced sheep husbandry in various countries, frequently through cross-breeding with Merino sheep, and has contributed to the development of new breeds.

What is the current conservation status of the Lincoln Longwool breed?

In the twenty-first century, the Lincoln Longwool is classified as an endangered breed. The Rare Breeds Survival Trust designates it as 'priority,' their highest level of concern, and the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) lists it as 'at risk/endangered'.

What is the historical connection between Lincolnshire and the wool trade?

The county of Lincolnshire has a long-standing association with the wool trade dating back to Medieval times. The city of Lincoln was designated as one of the official 'staple towns' under the Ordinance of the Staple in 1353, which regulated the wool trade.

Which countries have reported substantial populations of Lincoln Longwool sheep?

According to data, Argentina reports the largest populations of Lincoln Longwool sheep, estimated between 100,000 and 200,000 individuals. New Zealand also maintains a significant population, with approximately 4,169 reported.

What were the reported numbers of Lincoln Longwool sheep in the United Kingdom in 2024?

In 2024, the United Kingdom reported a total of 675 Lincoln Longwool ewes, with 251 of those registered in the official herd-book. This low number contributes to the breed's endangered status.

What specific breeds have been developed or influenced by the Lincoln Longwool?

The Lincoln Longwool has influenced the development of several breeds, including the Corriedale in New Zealand, and the Kalinin, Liski, Soviet Mutton-Wool, and Tyan Shan breeds in the former Soviet Union. In the United States, it contributed to the Columbia and Targhee breeds.

What are the typical weight ranges for male and female Lincoln Longwool sheep?

Male Lincoln Longwool rams typically weigh between 120 and 160 kilograms, while female ewes generally range from 80 to 120 kilograms. This indicates it is a large-framed breed.

What is the typical height of male and female Lincoln Longwool sheep?

Male Lincoln Longwool rams usually stand around 89 cm tall, while female ewes are typically about 80 cm tall at the shoulder.

What color is the wool and face of the Lincoln Longwool breed?

The Lincoln Longwool breed is characterized by its white wool and white face color.

What is the approximate weight of a Lincoln Longwool ewe's fleece?

A ewe's fleece from the Lincoln Longwool breed typically weighs between 6 and 7 kilograms when greasy.

What is the record fleece weight for a Lincoln Longwool ram?

The heaviest fleece on record for a Lincoln Longwool ram weighed 21.1 kilograms.

What is the typical staple length of Lincoln Longwool ewe wool?

The staple length of wool from Lincoln Longwool ewes generally ranges from about 20 to 28 centimeters, although lengths exceeding 80 centimeters have been documented.

What is the fiber diameter and Bradford Count of Lincoln Longwool wool?

The fiber diameter of Lincoln Longwool wool is typically between 37 and 41 micrometers, which corresponds to a Bradford Count of approximately 36s to 40s.

What is the scientific classification of the Lincoln Longwool?

The scientific classification for the Lincoln Longwool, as part of the domestic sheep species, is Ovis aries.

What does the conservation status 'not at risk' by the FAO in 2007 signify for the Lincoln Longwool?

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) assessed the Lincoln Longwool in 2007 as 'not at risk,' indicating that at that time, the breed's population numbers and genetic diversity were considered stable and not facing immediate threats to survival.

What does the conservation status 'at risk/endangered' by DAD-IS in 2025 signify?

The listing as 'at risk/endangered' by the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) in 2025 suggests that the Lincoln Longwool breed's population has declined to a level where its long-term survival is a concern, requiring monitoring and potential conservation efforts.

What is the significance of the Lincoln Longwool being the largest sheep breed in the United Kingdom?

Being the largest sheep breed in the UK highlights the Lincoln Longwool's robust build and substantial size, which is often associated with its primary purpose of producing large quantities of wool and meat.

What does the term 'staples' refer to in the context of wool?

In wool terminology, 'staples' refer to the natural bundles or locks of fibers that grow on a sheep. The ease with which Lincoln Longwool staples separate is a characteristic valued in wool processing.

What is the 'Global Databank for Animal Genetic Resources' mentioned in relation to the Lincoln Longwool's conservation status?

The Global Databank for Animal Genetic Resources is a database maintained by the FAO that collects information on the status of various animal breeds worldwide, used to assess risks and guide conservation strategies for livestock diversity.

What is the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) and its role concerning the Lincoln Longwool?

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) is an organization dedicated to conserving and promoting rare and native breeds of livestock in the UK. They categorize breeds based on their level of risk, and the Lincoln Longwool's 'priority' status indicates it is among the most vulnerable breeds they monitor.

What does the term 'cross-breeding' mean in the context of sheep farming?

Cross-breeding involves mating individuals from different breeds to combine desirable traits from each parent breed. In the case of the Lincoln Longwool, it has been cross-bred with other breeds, like the Merino, to improve specific characteristics in the offspring.

What is the significance of the Lincoln Longwool being listed on the watchlist of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust?

Being listed on the RBST watchlist signifies that the Lincoln Longwool breed is considered at risk of extinction or significant decline within the UK. The 'priority' designation is the highest level of concern on this list.

What is the 'Bradford Count' in relation to wool?

The Bradford Count is a system used in the wool industry to classify wool fineness. A higher count indicates finer wool fibers. The Lincoln Longwool's count of 36s-40s suggests it is a coarser wool compared to breeds like Merino, which have much higher counts.

What does the term 'lustrous' mean when describing wool?

Lustrous wool possesses a natural sheen or brightness, reflecting light. This quality is often desirable for certain textile applications, contributing to the visual appeal of the finished fabric.

What is the 'Ordinance of the Staple' from 1353?

The Ordinance of the Staple was legislation enacted in England during the 14th century that designated specific towns ('staple towns') where wool and other commodities had to be traded. This aimed to regulate and centralize the wool trade.

What is the purpose of the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS)?

DAD-IS is an information system managed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). It serves as a global platform for documenting and monitoring the diversity of domestic animal breeds, including their conservation status and population data.

What is the significance of the Lincoln Longwool's wool being described as having 'broad staples that separate easily'?

This description indicates that the wool fibers grow in distinct, wide locks that can be readily separated. This characteristic is beneficial during the wool processing stages, such as carding and spinning, making the wool easier to handle and work with.

What does the term 'vernacular' refer to in the context of the Lincoln Longwool's classification?

In this context, 'vernacular' refers to the common or everyday name for the animal, which is 'Sheep'. It distinguishes the common name from the scientific name.

What is the scientific name for the domestic sheep species, to which the Lincoln Longwool belongs?

The scientific name for the domestic sheep species is Ovis aries.

What kind of image is presented alongside the breed's name in the infobox?

The infobox includes two images related to the Lincoln Longwool breed. The first image is identified as 'Lincoln Longwool Sheep.jpg', and the second is labeled 'Lincoln sheep.jpg'.

What information is provided in the 'Traits' section of the Lincoln Longwool infobox?

The 'Traits' section of the infobox details the breed's physical characteristics, specifically listing the weight and height ranges for both male (ram) and female (ewe) individuals, as well as the color of their wool and face.

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes the Lincoln Longwool breed according to the introductory text?

The primary distinguishing characteristic mentioned is that it is the largest sheep breed in the United Kingdom and was specifically bred for wool production.

What role did the Lincoln Longwool play in the development of breeds like the Corriedale and Columbia?

The Lincoln Longwool served as a foundational breed, contributing its genetic traits through cross-breeding to the development of other recognized sheep breeds such as the Corriedale in New Zealand and the Columbia and Targhee in the United States.

What does the term 'proto-Expressionism' refer to in the context of 19th-century theatre (referencing the example format)?

Proto-Expressionism refers to artistic styles or works that showed early characteristics or foreshadowed the later movement of Expressionism. In the context of theatre, it would imply plays or theatrical approaches that exhibited elements later associated with Expressionism, such as heightened emotionality or distorted reality, even before the movement formally emerged.

What is the significance of the Lincoln Longwool breed being listed under 'Livestock breeds of the British Isles'?

This classification indicates that the Lincoln Longwool is a recognized breed originating from or historically significant within the British Isles, placing it within a broader context of native UK farm animals.

What does the term 'infobox biota' suggest about the structure of the provided information?

The term 'infobox biota' indicates that the structured data box at the beginning of the article is specifically designed to present key information about a biological organism or species, in this case, the Lincoln Longwool sheep breed.

What is the purpose of the 'Conservation status' field in the breed's infobox?

The 'Conservation status' field provides information on the breed's population health and risk of extinction, citing sources like the FAO and DAD-IS to indicate whether the breed is considered secure, at risk, or endangered.

What does the term 'Country of origin' signify for the Lincoln Longwool?

The 'Country of origin' field explicitly states that the Lincoln Longwool breed originated in the United Kingdom, highlighting its geographical roots and historical development.

What does the term 'infobox-label' and 'infobox-data' imply in the table structure?

These terms denote the structure of the data within the infobox table. 'Infobox-label' designates the category or attribute being described (e.g., 'Weight'), while 'infobox-data' provides the specific value or information for that attribute (e.g., 'Male: 120–160 kg').

What is the function of the 'mw-parser-output' class in the HTML source?

The 'mw-parser-output' class is a standard CSS class used in MediaWiki (the software behind Wikipedia) to style the main content area of a parsed wiki page. It contains the rendered text, tables, and other elements that make up the article's body.

What is the purpose of the 'shortdescription' class in the HTML source?

The 'shortdescription' class is used to display a brief, concise summary of the article's topic, often appearing near the title. For the Lincoln Longwool, this is 'British breed of sheep'.

What does the presence of 'infobox-image' and image file names like 'Lincoln_Longwool_Sheep.jpg' indicate?

These elements indicate that the article includes visual representations of the Lincoln Longwool breed. The 'infobox-image' class specifically denotes images placed within the breed's information box, accompanied by file names that describe the image content.

What is the meaning of the citation markers like [1], [2], [3] found in the text?

These bracketed numbers are citation markers, indicating that the preceding statement or piece of information is supported by a source listed in the 'References' section at the end of the article. They allow readers to verify the information and find the original source.

What does the 'vernacular' classification signify within the breed's classification list?

The vernacular classification refers to the common name used for the animal. In this case, it identifies the Lincoln Longwool as belonging to the 'Sheep' category in everyday language.

What is the role of the 'navbox' element in the Wikipedia article structure?

A 'navbox' (navigation box) is a template typically found at the bottom of Wikipedia articles, used to link related pages together. In this article, it lists other livestock breeds of the British Isles, helping users navigate to related topics.

How does the Lincoln Longwool's fleece characteristic of hanging in 'broad staples that separate easily' benefit its use?

This characteristic suggests that the wool is less likely to felt or mat together while still on the sheep and can be more easily processed into yarn. It implies a certain quality and manageability for wool spinners and weavers.

What does the mention of 'cross-breeding with Merino stock' imply about the Lincoln Longwool's genetic contribution?

This implies that the Lincoln Longwool possesses desirable traits, such as size or fleece characteristics, that breeders sought to incorporate into other breeds, like the Merino, which is known for its fine wool. This highlights the Lincoln Longwool's role in improving or developing other breeds.

Lincoln Longwool Wiki: The Lincoln Longwool: A Heritage Breed of Distinction

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The Lincoln Longwool Breed

Origin and Purpose

The Lincoln Longwool is an ancient British breed of domestic sheep, originating from the county of Lincolnshire. It is recognized as the largest sheep breed within the United Kingdom. Its primary development was driven by the need for substantial wool production, making it a cornerstone of the region's agricultural economy.

Global Dissemination

Historically, the Lincoln Longwool has been widely exported to numerous countries, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, China, New Zealand, Paraguay, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, the United States, and South Africa. This global presence has significantly influenced sheep husbandry practices worldwide.

Economic Significance

The breed's fleece is renowned for its quality and quantity. The Lincoln Longwool has been instrumental in developing new breeds through cross-breeding, particularly with Merino stock, to enhance wool characteristics and adaptability in diverse environments. Its contribution to global livestock genetics is substantial.

Historical Context

Lincolnshire Roots

The county of Lincolnshire has a deep-rooted connection with the wool trade, dating back to Medieval times. The city of Lincoln itself was designated as one of the official "staple towns" under the Ordinance of the Staple in 1353, underscoring the region's historical importance in wool commerce and production.

International Exports

The Lincoln Longwool's desirable traits led to extensive exportations. Countries like Argentina and New Zealand have maintained substantial populations, contributing significantly to the breed's global footprint. These exports were particularly notable throughout the twentieth century.

Breed Development

The Lincoln Longwool has played a pivotal role in the genetic development of other sheep breeds. Through strategic cross-breeding, often with Merino sheep, it has contributed to the establishment of breeds such as the Corriedale in New Zealand and several breeds in the former Soviet Union and the United States, including the Columbia and Targhee.

Physical Characteristics

Size and Build

The Lincoln Longwool is characterized by its large and massive frame. This robust physique contributes to its resilience and productivity in various agricultural settings.

Weight and Height

Mature rams typically weigh between 120 and 160 kg, while ewes range from 80 to 120 kg. The average height at the shoulder is approximately 89 cm for rams and 80 cm for ewes.

Coloration

The breed exhibits distinctive white wool and a white face, contributing to its recognizable appearance in pastoral landscapes.

Fleece Properties

Fleece Yield

The Lincoln Longwool is renowned for its heavy fleece. Ewe fleeces typically yield between 6 to 7 kg of greasy wool. The breed holds records for exceptional fleece weights, with one ram's fleece documented at an impressive 21.1 kg.

Quality and Texture

The wool is distinguished by its coarse, wavy, and lustrous nature. It hangs in broad, easily separable staples, making it highly desirable for textile applications. The staple length for ewe wool generally ranges from 20 to 28 cm, though exceptional lengths exceeding 80 cm have been recorded.

Technical Specifications

The fibre diameter typically falls between 37 to 41 micrometers (µm). This corresponds to a Bradford Count of approximately 36s to 40s, indicating a relatively coarse but strong wool suitable for various industrial and artisanal uses.

Global Influence

Cross-breeding Success

The Lincoln Longwool's genetic contributions have been vital in developing new sheep breeds globally. Its strategic cross-breeding, particularly with Merino stock, has been instrumental in enhancing wool quality and adaptability across different climates and agricultural systems.

American Breeds

In the United States, the Lincoln Longwool has significantly influenced the development of breeds such as the Columbia and the Targhee. These breeds benefit from the Lincoln's robust fleece characteristics and hardy constitution.

Southern Hemisphere Impact

Countries like Argentina and New Zealand have substantial populations of Lincoln Longwools, reflecting the breed's successful adaptation and continued importance in their agricultural sectors. The breed's influence is evident in the quality of wool produced in these regions.

Conservation Status

Endangered Classification

In the twenty-first century, the Lincoln Longwool is considered an endangered breed. The Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) classified its status as "at risk/endangered" in 2025.

Rare Breeds Survival Trust

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) categorizes the Lincoln Longwool as "priority," representing its highest level of concern. This designation highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to preserve this historically significant breed.

UK Population Data

As of 2024, the United Kingdom reported a total of 675 ewes, with 251 registered in the official herd-book. This limited population underscores the critical importance of ongoing conservation initiatives.

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References

Watchlist 2025â26. Kenilworth, Warwickshire: Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Archived 27 June 2025.

Lincoln Longwool. Kenilworth, Warwickshire: Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Archived 21 December 2024.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Lincoln Longwool Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not agricultural or veterinary advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment from qualified agricultural experts, veterinarians, or livestock specialists. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding livestock management or health. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Lincoln Longwool: A Heritage Breed of Distinction

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Lincoln Longwool Breed 🐑

🇬🇧 Origin and Purpose

🌍 Global Dissemination

📈 Economic Significance

Historical Context 📜

🏰 Lincolnshire Roots

✈️ International Exports

🧬 Breed Development

Physical Characteristics 📏

🐘 Size and Build

⚖️ Weight and Height

⚪ Coloration

Fleece Properties 🧶

🏋️ Fleece Yield

✨ Quality and Texture

🔢 Technical Specifications

Global Influence 🌍

🤝 Cross-breeding Success

🇺🇸 American Breeds

🇦🇷 Southern Hemisphere Impact

Conservation Status 🛡️

⚠️ Endangered Classification

🚨 Rare Breeds Survival Trust

🇬🇧 UK Population Data

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Lincoln Longwool Breed

Origin and Purpose

Global Dissemination

Economic Significance

Historical Context

Lincolnshire Roots

International Exports

Breed Development

Physical Characteristics

Size and Build

Weight and Height

Coloration

Fleece Properties

Fleece Yield

Quality and Texture

Technical Specifications

Global Influence

Cross-breeding Success

American Breeds

Southern Hemisphere Impact

Conservation Status

Endangered Classification

Rare Breeds Survival Trust

UK Population Data

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice