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There are two distinct types, and the popularity of each seems to be confined to different areas of the UK. For instance, the four horned Jacobs are more common in the northern and western parts and the two horned type is found more in the central and southern areas. This results in two horned animals being brought south for better sale prices and four horned ones travelling north. Some people keep mixed flocks but many folks strongly prefer one type or the other….leading to a gentle rivalry between flock owners! However, both types inspire a great affection amongst their keepers and give daily interest and pleasure. |
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 They can be made as tame as you want them to be - some people don't like a
sheep that sticks its head into your pocket for food, or queues up to have its chin
tickled, (Personally, I like a flock that comes running up to me when I rattle a bucket.)
but they do adapt to whatever management system you prefer. |
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I think Jacobs are some of the prettiest sheep around and was hooked on them
from the moment I was given my first ones for Christmas in 1982.
They are intelligent, active animals with enquiring minds. One or two lambs are
usual, but Jacobs often have triplets or quads. They lamb easily and have a strong
mothering instinct. The lambs are on their feet within minutes of birth and can be seen
jumping around the lambing pen within an hour or so - all of which makes caring for them a
real pleasure.