Jacob Sheep are a small ancient breed believed to have originated in ancient Syria and named after the account in Genesis chapter 30, where Jacob practiced selective breeding to achieve the spotted sheep.
The sheep carry the polycerate gene that allows the animal to produce multiple horns. Two and four horned sheep are common, however 6 horned sheep show up on occasion. The sheep are also very hardy and have good resistance to disease and parasites. The ewes lamb easily with twins and triplets quite common. The sheep produce fleece that has wonderful natural color and is a favorite of handspinners.
Currently American Jacob Sheep are listed as a "threatened" species by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy.
