Various Faults regarding Soay sheep
It is not common to see conformational faults in Soay sheep, but it does happen now and then. A conscientious breeder will be familiar with the faults that can show up, and will cull sheep with faults, and the parents of such sheep as necessary.1
It is important to consider monetary issues and an affinity for a certain look, color or phenotype, versus conformation and genetic faults. While some may breed lesser quality animals to provide for a current "fad" and to provide themselves with monetary expediency, reputable breeders will cull any questionable animals, and will abide by the SOA Code of Ethics.
- Conformation Shape or proportionate dimensions of an animal compared with the ideal.
- Cryptorchid Ram with just one testicle. This is a fault and should be culled.
- Cull To remove from a breeding program; more specifically, to butcher or to designate for later butchering.
- Fault A conformational fault is a physical defect.
- Horns, narrow Narrow horned rams should be culled, unless there is a severe shortage of rams from that particular bloodline.
- Horns, 4 Rams with 4 horns are not a fault, but an indication of cross-breeding and should be culled.
- Jaw, undershot The lower jaw does not grow as long as the upper jaw and may interfere with chewing. Rarely happens, is hereditary, and should be culled for.
- Knock knees Legs that are not straight, but veer inward at the knees. This is a fault, and should not be bred from unless absolutely necessary.
- Sway back This is a fault, and refers to a sheep that does not have a straight back, also known as top-line. Older ewes can become sway-backed, which is less a fault and more of a consequence of bearing many lambs.
SOA Bylaw 9.3 BREEDER OBLIGATIONS AND CODE OF ETHICS: Breeders are obligated to keep accurate records, to refrain from the introduction of other breeds of sheep to be presented for Registration or Progeny Testing, to practice honesty in all its forms in dealing with genetics of one's flock of sheep and in dealing with the public and potential purchasers of one's stock, to conduct oneself with dignity and honesty at any breed organization public function in such a manner that enhances the image of Soay Sheep. Breeders are obligated to register their eligible Soay sheep with SOA prior to sale, prior to use in breeding, and prior to one year of age. Breeders are obligated to pay for the Transfer of Registration of sheep sold. Breeders are obligated to give due regard for the consideration of heredity defects, good health and physical condition of stock to be bred, and the quality of sheep produced by such breeding. Failure to disclose known hereditary defects, health and physical condition of any stock offered for sale is not condoned by SOA.
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