In this section we will look at
1.)About Dorper Sheep
2.)Characteristics of Dorper Sheep
3.)Purpose of Dorper Sheep
5.)FAQ about Dorper Sheep
6.)List of Dorper Sheep Sellers
The Dorper sheep, a popular breed known for its adaptability and quality meat production were developed in South Africa in the 1930s by crossbreeding Blackhead Persian sheep (known for their hardiness in arid climates) with Dorset Horn sheep (renowned for their meat quality).
The breed’s name, "Dorper," comes from combining "Dorset" and "Persian." The breed was explicitly designed to thrive in harsh, semi-arid environments.
Dorper Sheep come in two varieties: the black-headed Dorper (most common) and the white Dorper. They have short, light wool with a smooth undercoat and a hardy, muscular frame. Mature rams weigh 90-140 kg while Mature ewes weigh 50-80 kg
Image of Dorper sheep Lambs by Eric Koech Ero
Dorper sheep excel in hot, dry climates but can also adapt to cooler, wetter regions. Ewes can produce up to 3 lamb crops in 2 years with high fertility rates with an average lambing interval of 8 months.
The primary purpose of Dorper sheep is meat production. They are renowned for Producing lean, tender, and flavorful meat with a low-fat content Reaching market weight rapidly, often within 4-6 months.
Dorper sheep have become a vital breed in Kenya's livestock industry, especially in arid and semi-arid regions like Kajiado, Narok, and Samburu. They are preferred for their ability to withstand drought conditions. High-quality meat production, which fetches premium prices in local and export markets and Low maintenance requirements compared to wool breeds.
Why Are Dorper Sheep Expensive
Dorper sheep often command high prices due to their demand for Meat as their high-quality, tender meat is sought after in domestic and export markets. Farmers value Dorper ewes for their high fertility rates and lambing efficiency. While their ability to thrive in harsh conditions makes them ideal for livestock farming in challenging environments. Dorper breeding rams and ewes often fetch high prices due to their genetics.
Rapid Growth: Dorper lambs grow quickly and can reach market weight (35-40 kg) by 4-6 months of age.
Low Maintenance: They do not require shearing, as they naturally shed their wool.
High Reproductive Rate: Ewes exhibit excellent maternal instincts and produce robust lambs.
Quality Meat: The meat has a mild flavor, making it popular in both domestic and international markets.
Hardiness: They thrive in harsh climates, including arid and semi-arid areas.
Image of Rams and ewes dorper Sheep by Felix Kiprono
Dorper lambs reach slaughter weight within 4-6 months, depending on nutrition and management. They can achieve a weight of 35-40 kg during this period.
Image of an elastrator costing 900ksh with Rubber rings costing 350ksh for a packet of 100pcs by sarah Farmzone
An elastrator is a tool used in livestock management, particularly for castration and tail docking in animals such as sheep, goats, and cattle. It is designed to apply tight rubber bands around the base of the scrotum or tail, restricting blood flow to the area. This leads to tissue necrosis, and eventually, the scrotum or tail falls off after a few weeks.
While Dorper sheep have many advantages, there are some challenges which include Initial Cost as the purchase price of breeding stock is high, making them less accessible to small-scale farmers. While hardy, they perform best when provided with adequate nutrition, especially during lambing. Like all livestock, Dorper Sheep require consistent veterinary care to prevent diseases like worms and foot rot. In semi-arid regions, intensive farming of Dorper sheep can lead to overgrazing if not managed well.
List of Dorper Sheeps Sellers
Note:DO NOT send any booking Fee
Image of a mature Dorper sheep for sale costing 50,000Ksh by Joseph Lemayian
Dorper Breeding rams | 12,000Ksh |
Mature Dorper sheep | 15,000Ksh |
Dorper Ram | 50,000Ksh |
Dorper Ram Ewes | 30,000 Ksh |
Dorper Sheep | 15,000Ksh |
Dorper sheep | 15,000Ksh |
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