Purebred Romanov Bred Ewe Lambs

Purebred Romanov
Newborn Quad Ewe Lambs

Newborn Romanov Ewe Lambs
Already eating mom's hay!

Purebred Romanov Ewe Lamb
just Lambed Triplets -
she raised them all!

The Romanov is a breed of remarkable prolificacy and maternal strengths. They originated in Russia and were first imported into Canada in the 1980's, then after a 5-year quarantine period were spread throughout North America.

Despite all North American Romanovs descending from relatively few animals they have retained exceptional hardiness, lamb vigor and productivity. The breed record is 9 live lambs born! The North American breed record is 7 live lambs born! The Romanov is a genetically pure breed, distinct from British and American breeds.

Purebred Romanovs are not for the beginning sheep producer, as they require a high level of management and special care around lambing time. Another extraordinary feature of the breed is hardiness, lamb vigor and lamb survival. The lambs are easily born due to fine bone structure and relatively light birth weights. They are generally up, active and nursing within minutes of birth. They will share concentrate and hay with their mothers while still in the claiming pens.

Romanov carcasses remain lean as a large portion of their fat is laid down internally. Purebreds finish at relatively light weights (80-100lbs) which makes them ideal for the rapidly expanding ethnic market. When bred to a terminal sire such as a Charollais the crossbred lambs grow rapidly, and grade very well. The Romanov is aseasonal and therefore an ideal breed to incorporate into an accelerated lambing system. Lambs reach sexual maturity at a very young age (as early as 3-4 months). Early weaning at 8-10 weeks must be a part or your management with this breed. Rams are aggressive breeders and will remain fertile and active all year long. Rams that do not make breeding quality are sold as vasectomized teasers - a Romanov will be the most effective teaser you've ever owned!

Purebred Romanov ewes do require a high level of management from the producer, however the real moneymakers are the Romanov - X ewes. ½ Romanovs retain much of the productivity and prolificacy (triplets are normal, quads common) but produce offspring with improved carcass qualities. The ¼ Romanov ewes are the perfect match for the beginner or low-input commercial lamb producer. These ewes will lamb and raise a 235-245% lamb crop with virtually no assistance.

It does not take much of the exceptional Romanov genetics to improve productivity in your flock!