Frequently Asked Questions.

Q: When do they shed their wool?

A: Wiltipoll Sheep "natural fully shed" their wool every year, commencing at the end of Winter. They have usually completed shedding by the end of Spring in time for summer. It then begins to grow back again in Autumn ready for winter again. Wool loss and timing depends on nutrition of the sheep, the season and their genetics, but should always completely shed every year.

Q: What happens to the wool when it is shed?

A: The wool falls to the ground and is of no commercial value. The wool is full of nutrients and is a great soil conditioner and the birds love collecting it for their nests.

Q: Are all registered Wiltipoll sheep the same?

A:  Often you will see "Registered Wiltipolls for sale", but to compare correctly, you will need to know if they are Class A1, A, B  etc. You could also inquire as to the parenting/pedigree/sibling history of any sheep you are purchasing. Some breeders may not keep pedigree history. At Bingara we collate this information with the exception of a few, as we feel it is very important to know the bloodline and breeding history of the animals. This may also help you in our selection process. 

Q: Why have some of my lambs got horns, yet the dam & sire don't?

A: Whilst the poll gene is a dominant gene, the ewes may have the horn gene even though she visually appears polled. The same is for the ram, he may be carrying half poll and half horn gene and only show a small scur, but if mated to a ewe with a horn gene, they may then produce a horned lamb as the lamb will take one gene from each parent.

Q: When can I join my ewes to rams?

A: Ewe lambs may be joined at 6-7mths of age but success depends on maturity and condition of the ewe at joining. Wiltipoll ewes are seasonal breeders and mostly cycle from February to May for lambing generally from late July to October. (seasons may vary slightly depending on your location in Australia). Rams will mate from as early as 6-7mths old and can be used all year round and therefore making good terminal sires.

Q: How do I become a member of the Australian Wiltipoll Association?

A: Please feel free to contact me to discuss or visit www.wiltipoll.com for memberships fees and forms. 

If you have a question that is not listed, please feel free to send me an email.

bingara@wiltipollsheep.com.au

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Disclaimer: All content contained on this website is intended to give a simple overview only and no responsibility will be accepted for use of any of this information in any form. Please refer to the Australian Wiltipoll Association for rules and regulations at www.wiltipoll.com