African Four Horn Sheep

A rare sheep breed from Africa

Young Four Horn ram at Willowbank (Geoff Trotter photograph.)

In the early 2000s an Australian genetic company was collecting genetic material in Africa to import back into Australia. By chance they heard about some four horned sheep and at the last minute managed to collect 50 embryos. These were purchased by a consortium, and the progeny then shared. Results were not great and by 2016, only four breeders remained with stock.

The Willowbank Stud in Canterbury imported two rams in 2013 which were then put over Damara sheep. The Four Horn characteristic is a genetic trait that can be passed on to any breed, and in the case of the Willowbank Stud the African base and influence was maintained. The breeding results can be variable, and sometimes you may get up to six horns. The horn shape can also be variable, with the traditional two straight up and two curling down being considered the most desirable.

The traditional African Four Horn Sheep is quite a large and erect animal. It is a typical hair sheep, and the rams often have a mane under their neck. They can be multi-coloured and are spectacular to look at. As such they were invited to be the star attraction at the Sydney Royal Show, and often command a high price.

In the future the four horn gene may well be implanted into other breeds of sheep for various reasons such as to recreate a Jacobs type sheep, develop a trophy animal, or just as an interesting project to take forward.

Another young African Four Horn ram.
(Michael Willis/Geoff Trotter photograph.)