Ministry of Agriculture promotes newly introduced Barbados Blackbelly sheep

Published by [email protected] at January 26, 2024

Posted: Friday, January 26, 2024. 11:34 am CST.

Photo Credit: MAFSE

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) announced that Barbados Blackbelly sheep are being introduced as part of the Genetic Improvement in Sheep and Goat Project that is a collaboration between the Republic of China Taiwan and the Government of Belize.

“This breed, native to the Caribbean Island of Barbados, is a fantastic addition to your flock, primarily raised for its excellent meat quality,” MAFSE said in a statement posted on social media.

MAFSE outlined the many advantages of choosing to breed the Barbados Blackbelly sheep:

– They can adapt to different climates and environments, from tropical to cold regions.

– They have high reproductive efficiency, producing two lambs per litter and lambing every eight to nine months.

– They are naturally resistant to internal parasites and may not need frequent deworming.

– They have a coat of hair (not wool) that sheds in the spring, reducing the need for shearing.

– They have a distinctive appearance, with brown, tan, or yellow body and black belly, nose, forehead, and ears. They also have no horns, which makes them easier to handle.

Barbados Blackbelly sheep – (Photo Credit: MAFSE)

Barbados Blackbelly sheep are active, alert, and graceful animals that resemble small deer or antelope. They are excellent for meat production and can enhance sheep flocks diversity and profitability.

MAFSE also outlined Flock Management Tips:

Breeding Season Efficiency: During breeding season, a mature Barbados Blackbelly ram can mate with up to 30 ewes. This will improve ram performance and ensure optimal breeding conditions.

Strategic Introduction of Rams: To control the breeding cycle, only pair rams with females when they are ready to mate. This will help you keep better records and manage your flock more easily.

Post-Lambing Separation: After the ewes give birth, separate them from the ram and mark them with their lambs. This is a good opportunity to collect important data, such as birth weight and lamb number.

By following these tips, sheep farmers can increase the productivity of their Barbados Blackbelly flock and support the Genetic Improvement Project.

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