The Merino is a wool sheep breed originating from Spain. The breed is the gold standard for fine wool production, with fiber diameters as low as 10 to 20 microns. Merino wool is prized for its softness, breathability, and comfort against the skin. The breed has been developed over centuries for wool quality and quantity.
The Merino breed originated in Spain, where it was developed over centuries by careful selective breeding. The export of Merino sheep was strictly prohibited by the Spanish crown, with violators facing the death penalty, to maintain the country's monopoly on fine wool. Merinos were eventually smuggled out in the 18th century and established in France, Germany, and England. The breed spread to South Africa, Australia, and the United States in the 19th century.
Merinos are medium-sized sheep with ewes weighing 55 to 75 kilograms and rams weighing 70 to 100 kilograms. They have a distinctive wrinkled or folded skin that increases the surface area for wool growth. Merinos are white-faced and horned or polled depending on the strain. The breed produces 5 to 10 kilograms of wool per year with a fiber diameter of 10 to 20 microns. Merinos require shearing at least once a year and are more susceptible to flystrike than hair sheep breeds.
Wool production is the primary purpose of Merino sheep. Their wool is used in high-quality garments, base layers, and luxury textiles. Merinos require more management than hair sheep, including annual shearing and flystrike prevention.