Dorper

Dorper sheep are known for being fertile, low maintenance, and fast growing. They can breed every eight months and produce many twins, and their lambs can reach 36 kg in under four months. The Dorper is hardy and can thrive under range conditions where other breeds can barely exist and the ewe can raise a lamb of reasonable quality under fairly severe conditions. As a strong and non-selective grazer the Dorper can advantageously be incorporated into a well planned range management system.

The Dorper is an easy care breed which requires a minimum of labor. It's skin covering which is a mixture of hair and wool, will drop off if not shorn to keep it tidy. The Dorper has a thick skin which is highly prized and protects the sheep under harsh climatic conditions. The Dorper skin is the most sought after sheepskin in the world and is marketed under the name of Cape Glovers. The skin comprises a high percentage of the income (20%) of the total carcass value.

The Dorper sheep are medium-sized, with a muscular and compact build. Dorper sheep have a distinctive black head and white body, though a variant called the White Dorper has a completely white coat. The breed has a combination of hair and wool, which they shed naturally, reducing the need for shearing.