Karakul Sheep, Wool for Sale

Karakul Sheep/Wool for Sale

"Little Bo-Peep has lost her sheep and doesn't know where to find them;

leave them alone and they'll come home, dragging their tails behind them!"

Hmmm, little Bo-Peep's sheep might have been the Karakul. With a large broad fat tail quite different than American breeds of sheep, they do run home for dinner with their tails a floppin'. Many people mistake them for goats with those odd behinds and long floppy ears. Quite rare in this country, the Karakul is thought to be one of the oldest breeds of domesticated sheep in the world based on archeological carvings uncovered in ancient Babylonian temples. They are a versatile, hardy, attractive fur breed of sheep native to the Russian region of West Turkestan located in Central Asia.

Historically, Karakuls provided lustrous pelts, meat, wool for many uses, fat, and even milk for their masters. However, most modern uses for the Karakul are typically fiber based. With mature fleeces in a variety of natural colors, most Karakuls are born with silky jet black fur. It was this rich curly black pelt that was marketed to the fur trade in the early 20th century for coats and jackets. Thankfully, most recognize more appropriate uses for this lovely wool. Considered to be easily spun and felted, this strong, coarse, long stapled wool with little crimp lacks a high grease content. Many of the finest Persian rugs and carpets are perfect examples of the beauty and versatility of the Karakul fleece. Other uses include quilt batts, saddle blankets, outer garments, wall hangings, hats, and even as an organic alternative to fiberglass insulation.

We have a wonderful selection of roving and felt batts available from our Karakuls in shades of black, gray, brown, and cream for sale at $16.00 per pound plus postage. Unprocessed fleece is less expensive. We will gladly send samples for your approval.

Links to more Karakul Sheep information:

The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy www.albc-usa.org

The American Karakul Sheep Registry www.karakulsheep.com