Completed for the fifth time since 1971, the latest Sheep Breed Survey has again provided a unique insight into our changing industry.Of particular interest is the increase of both crossbred ewes and rams in the national flock, and a continued move away from the traditional stratified system in favour of terminal sire-based crosses.The number of crossbred ewes in the national flock increased from 56% to 58%, indicating a small reduction in purebred ewe numbers compared to 2012. The three main hill ewe breeds (Scottish Blackface, Welsh Mountain and Swaledale) dominated the pure-breeding sector, but all three were declining in number - more than 1,000 less Scottish Blackface flocks reported in 2020.
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