Cotswold sheep are a breed of large, long-haired sheep native to the Cotswold Hills in England. The spelling of "Cotswold" is pronounced /ˈkɒtswəld/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "o" in both "Cotswold" and "sheep" is pronounced as the short "o" sound, similar to the word "pot". The "w" in "Cotswold" is pronounced as a voiced labio-velar approximant, similar to the "w" in "we". Cotswold sheep are known for their excellent wool production and are popular among hand spinners and weavers.
Cotswold sheep are a specific breed of domesticated sheep that originated in the Cotswold hills of England. They are classified as a longwool breed due to their distinctively long and lustrous wool.
Physically, Cotswold sheep are a large breed, with mature rams weighing up to 275 pounds and mature ewes weighing up to 200 pounds. They have a characteristic broad and strong head, with a Roman nose and long, pendulous ears. Their bodies are well-muscled and rectangular in shape, with a deep barrel chest and strong legs.
The most notable feature of Cotswold sheep is their dense and curly fleece, which can grow up to 12 inches or more in length. The wool is known for its high luster and soft handle, making it desirable for various textile applications. The color of the fleece can range from white to shades of cream and silver.
Cotswold sheep are dual-purpose animals, meaning they are valued both for their meat and wool production. The rich and tender meat of Cotswold sheep is known for its excellent flavor and is highly sought after by consumers. Additionally, their wool is used for various products such as clothing, blankets, and rugs.
Due to their adaptability and ease of management, Cotswold sheep have been successfully introduced to many parts of the world. They are known for their docile temperament, hardiness, and good maternal instincts. These traits, combined with their striking appearance and versatile wool, make Cotswold sheep a popular choice for farmers and hobbyists alike.
The word "Cotswold" refers to the Cotswold Hills, a range of rolling hills in south-central England. The etymology of "Cotswold sheep" can be traced back to this region.
The term "Cotswold" is believed to originate from the Old English words "cottes", meaning "huts", and "wald", meaning "forest" or "wooded uplands". This suggests that the name originally referred to the "wolds" or open uplands of the Cotswolds where cottages or huts were found. The region was characterized by its limestone-rich soil, which supported the growth of dense woodland.
The sheep breed known as "Cotswold sheep" originated in the Cotswold Hills and has a rich history dating back to the medieval times.