The origin of Jacob Sheep
Jacob are a breed which dates back to biblical times. They got their name ‘Jacob’ from Joseph’s father. It is believed that Joseph’s ‘coat of many colours’ actually came from the Jacob sheep. There is a natural variation of colours produced in a Jacob sheep’s fleece. Although they cannot produce the vivid colours often desired today, the natural variation includes white, brown, black, orange, red and even lilac shades.
The breed has changed over the centuries. In this country Jacobs are now much larger and have either 2 or 4 horns rather than the 6 or more horns of the past. The variation in colours is less desirable, white and black/brown are preferred due to an improvement in fleece quality.
