ABSTRACT
African sheep, also known as pelona or camura, have played an important role in the animal economy of Colombia for more than 300 years. The first wool sheep from Spain also were introduced via La Guajira, and the types probably have been crossed substantially. However, the characteristics of the African type are more evident. The African sheep have short red hair, with the color varying from deep red to light red. Both rams and ewes are polled. The ears are small and are carried horizontally. Males are maned and some animals have patches of wool on the back. Additional information is provided by Riberto Bautista. The breeds maintained at La Gaitana are African and Blackhead Persian. The Blackhead Persian sheep appear to have reproductive problems, possibly as a result of inbreeding, and do not have any obvious advantage over the African type.
