The First Sheep, the True Sheep
It feels only fitting that early on in Leaning On Our Crooks, we highlight one of the earliest (and arguably most extraordinary) breeds developed in what is now known as North America. The Navajo-Churro is a stunning and remarkably resilient breed, cultivated by the Navajo people for more than 13 generations, ever since their ancestor, the Iberian Churra, was introduced to the region by the Spanish Army.
These small-statured, every-purpose heritage sheep excel in milk, meat, wool, and mothering. Their wool is exceptionally strong, naturally resisting wool moths and producing durable rugs, horse blankets, and under-armor. These grand sheep are as tough and enduring as the people who developed them, having survived record-breaking droughts, epic migrations, and even unsuccessful attempts at eradication by the United States government.
For more information on these marvelous sheep please see:
https://www.navajosheepproject.org/
https://www.facebook.com/thenavajolifeway/
https://www.navajo-churrosheep.com/
