The Barbados Blackbelly
Originating in the Caribbean, the Barbados Blackbelly is a breed of domestic sheep. It has also been argued that this breed of sheep evolved in the Island of Barbados. Native to the island of Barbados, these sheep are said to be the descendants of sheep brought to the island of West Africa during the slave era.
Blackbelly appearance
These sheep have an antelope like appearance. The head is oval to triangular in shape with a typical Roman nose. The ram’s head is distinctly masculine and the ewe’s head is essentially feminine. They have pointed ears which stick out when excited. Well-built legs, a strong muscular leg and almond shaped eyes complete the look. They weigh somewhere between 100 to 125 pounds. Both the male and the female are devoid of horns.
Other facts
Barbados blackbellies exhibit immense stamina and are able to bear more heat than any other sheep breed. They bear a striking resemblance to deer. Blackbellies are known as ‘hair sheep’ since they are devoid of wools on their bodies. Instead they have coarse hair. However if raised in cooler climates, they tend to develop wool undercoat which they shed in spring. They are very lively and active in nature and alert at all times.
Blackbelly behavior
They are very reactive to strange dogs or cats. Sometimes in order to defend themselves from predators they raise their front legs. Occasionally they bristle the hair on top of their neck or even jump at the animal to strike them with their forefeet. Ewes are highly protective towards their young ones.
Like most other domestic sheep, they breed all the year round. Their body color ranges from light tan to dark mahogany red. They also have black stripes on their face and legs. Despite having a deer like appearance they are essentially sheep.