ABSTRACT
The lambs produced by the Karakul-cross ewes had a noticeable fat accumulation around the tail. Lambs from Barbados-cross ewes bred to blackface rams had growth rates lower than those of lambs from Rambouillet ewes. The lambs from the Barbados-cross ewes also were colored atypically. If a realistic value is placed on the weight of wool and of the early-weaned lambs produced, the income realized from both the Karakul- and the Barbados-cross ewes would slightly exceed that from Rambouillet ewes. The Barbados-sired lambs generally are distinguishable by a hairy appearance, with a bare belly and bare legs, and red or dark colors. Because of their slower growth rate, these lambs might well require an additional 2 to 3 months to reach a slaughter weight and condition comparable to that of other US Choice lambs. The most notable difference in carcass traits was a higher percentage of kidney or pelvic fat in the Barbados-sired lambs.
