Friday, December 23, 2011

The promise of Red Maasai Sheep

Worldwatch on the advantages within an indigenous breed:
Image courtesy of Worldwatch
The Red Maasai East African sheep, also called Tanganyika Short-tailed, is a hardy breed of sheep indigenous to northern Tanzania, south central Kenya, and Uganda. The Red Maasai, which are distinct for having red hair instead of wool, are used primarily for their meat...While other sheep, known as Dorpers, were imported to East Africa from South Africa, Red Maasai have become a proven resource for farmers in recent years because of their resistance to worms and adaptation to semi-arid climates. Red Maasai are known to be resistant to a number of parasites, making them popular among the local population.
concluding:
With their pest- and drought-resistant qualities, Red Maasai is an important indigenous breed that is helping to improve food security in East Africa.

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