Quality
in every way
In keeping with the Columbia breed standards, the sheep at Bappe Farm have been bred to not only look good, but perform well as an all-around breed.
Our ewes are bred for hardiness, ease of lambing, and temperament. We hold back some lambs as replacement ewes and sell the rest privately.
We hand-pick a select few rams during lambing each year and sell them privately when they reach one year of age. Our rams are easy-going and docile.
Why Columbia Sheep?
Dual-Purpose
The Columbia breed was developed by the USDA in the early 1900s with the intent to create a true breeding type to replace cross-breeding on the range. The result was a sheep that produced more pounds of quality wool and meat per lamb, providing more profitability for the producer.
Wool Quality
Columbia sheep produce a quality fleece that yields good returns at shearing time. The fleece of a Columbia can average 10 to 16 pounds with a staple length of 3.5 to 5 inches and micron count from 31 to 24.
Size
Columbias are most noted for their size. Mature rams can weigh 250 to 350 pounds and ewes can weigh between 150 to 250 pounds.
Temperament
Columbia sheep, particularly the rams, are known for their calm, easy-going temperament. This makes them easy to raise and handle.