Sheep breed profile
Polypay
- Composite (meat + wool)
- U.S. (USDA composite)
- medium
- Temperament: calm
Polypay was developed by USDA ARS as a U.S. dual-purpose composite — high prolificacy, year-round breeding, and good wool and meat performance. Strong commercial fit for diversified sheep operations.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
150–200 lbs
Male weight
200–250 lbs
Daily gain
0.6 lbs/day
Fleece
8 lbs
Micron
26μ
Reproductive traits
Gestation
148 days
Lambs/ewe
2
Seasonality
year round
Maternal
excellent
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
good
Heat tolerance
good
Cold hardiness
good
Humidity tolerance
good
Common health concerns
- High prolificacy puts demand on ewe nutrition
- Less specialized than purebreds in either wool or meat alone
Management requirements
Experience
some experience
Housing
basic shelter
Fencing
woven wire
Feed system
pasture, hay, grain supplement
Shearing
Required
Primary purposes