Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Characteristics, Wool, Origin, Weight, Height

The Bluefaced Leicester (BFL) is a longwool sheep breed that originated in the 18th century as part of Robert Bakewell's breeding program in Dishley, Leicestershire. Due to the breed's predominance in Northumberland, the Bluefaced Leicester was first renowned as the Dishley Leicester, and later on as the Hexham Leicester. The title Bluefaced Leicester became popular at the start of the 20th century. 

The Bluefaced Leicester was introduced to Canada in the 1970s. Frozen germ cells from the U.k are also being utilized in Canada and the United States to increase genetic variation. Although this breed is generally farmed for meat, its wool is now becoming widely prevalent for hand spinning. These sheep may have brown spots on their faces, as well.

Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Characteristics

The wool of BFL sheep is wavy, silky, and shiny, making it one of the finest in the UK market. The fleeces are light, measuring only 1 to 3 kg (2.2 to 6.6 pounds). They have no fleece on their heads or necks, however, their wool has a structure and form similar to Wensleydale's, but with shorter, firmer curls. Bluefaced Leicesters are easily identifiable by their Roman noses, which display dark blue skin that is visible through the white hair. 

The Longwool sheep are indirectly connected to the old Leicester Longwool breed. BFL rams are crossed with hill sheep ewes to develop variety, which merges the BFL's prolificacy with the hill sheep's sturdiness and mothering skill.

Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Weight & Height

When completely developed, Blueface rams can weigh approximately 100 - 110 kg (240 pounds) and ewes approximately 80 to 90 kg (196 lb). At maturity, the rams are 90 cm in height and at the withers, they are 85 cm high.

Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Origin

The Bluefaced Leicester is a form of English Longwool variety that originated in the early 19th century near Hexham in the county of Northumberland, England. The breed was created with the intention of producing high-quality crossbred ewes for pasture in the region's surrounding hills. They descended from Border Leicesters chosen for their blue faces (white hairs on black skin) and smoother fleeces. They are usually found in the united kingdom, Wales and Scotland.

Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Wool

Blue-faced Leicester sheep have an exquisite Roman nose that gives them an attractive uniqueness. Just like their nose, their fleeces have an outstanding appearance. The wool is soft and fine, making it an excellent choice for garments that will come into contact with the skin. It's difficult to surpass excellence, but Blue-Faced Leicester fiber is close to it.

Despite its softness, BFL is extremely durable and retains its block exceptionally well, making it perfect for both more long-lasting items and lace clothing. The wool's density and semi-luster create a drapey yarn that nicely reflects light, producing vibrant saturated hues.