Arapawa sheep

Lore & Background

The Arapawa sheep is a breed of feral sheep found primarily on Arapaoa Island (formerly called Arapawa Island) in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand. The New Zealand Rare Breeds Conservation Society classifies it as 'rare'. This breed is raised primarily for wool. There have been many theories about the origin of the sheep. It was once thought that they were most likely descendants of Merinos introduced from Australia in 1867. Other theories were that they are from the Middle East introduced by whalers who were based on the island from the 1820s, or even that they were brought by a Spanish galleon as early as the 16th century. Genetic research has shown that their closest relative is the Florida Gulf Coast Native sheep. This supports the idea that they were brought by whalers in the early 19th century.

Reader's Guide

The Arapawa sheep holds significance as a rare feral breed with a contested history resolved by genetic evidence. Its closest relative, the Florida Gulf Coast Native sheep, confirms that whalers introduced the breed in the early 19th century, rather than earlier Spanish or Australian origins. This makes the breed a living link to maritime whaling operations in the Marlborough Sounds. The breed's adaptation to hostile, steep terrain is reflected in its hunched posture, light build, and long legs, which make it active and resilient. Its wool, of Merino-like fineness, is the primary reason for its continued raising. The breed's rarity, as classified by the New Zealand Rare Breeds Conservation Society, underscores the need for conservation efforts. The Arapawa sheep also exhibits distinctive physical traits: ewes have horns, rams have long spiral horns often exceeding 1 metre, and most individuals are entirely black, though white points or all-white specimens occur. The term 'Cocktail' Arapawas refers to those with white spots. These characteristics, combined with its genetic uniqueness, make the Arapawa sheep an important subject for breed preservation and historical study.

Did You Know?

• Genetic research shows the Arapawa sheep's closest relative is the Florida Gulf Coast Native sheep.
• Rams have long spiral horns that often measure over 1 metre (3 ft).
• Most Arapawa sheep are entirely black, but white points and all-white individuals occur.
• 'Cocktail' Arapawas refers to those that are white spotted.