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The first sheep introduced into New Zealand where Merino, this tough breed of sheep was well suited to the drier high country in the South Island, but didn't do well in wetter regions due to their susceptibility to foot-rot. So settlers introduced hardy British sheep breeds proven in wet conditions, like the Lincoln and English Leicester breeds.
It is really hard to know the exact breed of natural dark coloured sheepskin rugs, but common New Zealand sheep breeds like Perendale, Merino and Romney can all produce lambs with darker coloured wool in shades of brown and grey.
In a herd of white Perendale, Coopworth, NZ Romney or Merino sheep occasionally a lamb is born who is black, brown, beige or grey. It must be a very ancient recessive wool colour gene. There are many ancient sheep breeds that are always darker colours like the Gotland Pelt or Karakul.
In New Zealand these natural black sheep are still relatively uncommon and in the minority. I recently saw a ewe with young twin lambs. One was white and one was black. Most farmers want their flock to be white.
These natural sheepskin rugs are a delight to use in your home decor. The colours are unique and random adding texture and softness in both touch and colour. Use natural brown sheepskins draped over furniture like leather sofas or on the floor as a soft warm rug.
Each sheepskin rug is unique and should be treated as a rare gem. Chocolate brown is the main sheepskin colour but shades of coffee, mocha, grey, caramel and cream can also occur in nature.
Visit Gorgeous Creatures while in the Hawkes Bay
8 Otatara Rd, Taradale, Napier 4112 (by appointment please call or text first)
Kirsty Mason Ph 027 222 6230
showroom@gorgeouscreatures.co.nz
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