Targhee Sheep
Breed Description

The Targhee sheep breed derives its name from the Targhee National Forest in Idaho and Wyoming, where the United States Sheep Experiment Station conducted the breeding program creating this American breed. The forest itself was named after a Bannock chief, Targhee (also spelled Tyhee), connecting the breed's designation to the Native American heritage of the region where it was developed. This geographic naming immediately identifies the breed as American in origin and connects it to the western mountain ranges where it was specifically developed to thrive.

The Targhee represents a planned synthetic breed developed by the USDA beginning in 1926 at the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station near Dubois, Idaho. Unlike ancient breeds that evolved gradually over centuries, the Targhee was scientifically created through deliberate crossing of Rambouillet ewes (approximately 50% of genetics) with Lincoln (25%) and Corriedale (25%) rams, followed by decades of selection stabilizing characteristics suited to western range conditions. This intentional development means the Targhee has always been known by this single name without the multiple regional designations characterizing older breeds.

Within the American sheep industry, Targhees are sometimes called "Targhee range sheep" or simply "range Targhees," emphasizing their suitability for extensive grazing operations. However, these are descriptive terms rather than alternate names, as "Targhee" remains the universally recognized breed designation. The breed represents one of the few sheep breeds developed entirely in the United States specifically for American range conditions, distinguishing it from imported breeds that were later adapted to American environments.

The Columbia breed, also developed by USDA at a different research station, shares similar development goals and methods with the Targhee, leading some people unfamiliar with sheep to confuse the two breeds. However, they represent distinct genetic combinations with different characteristics, though both are large, hardy, dual-purpose American range breeds. Targhee breed associations maintain registries ensuring genetic integrity and consistent breed standards, with the breed recognized as a distinct entity by all major livestock organizations. The breed's scientific development and single geographic origin created nomenclature consistency across regions, unlike many breeds with varied names reflecting different areas or historical periods.

Targhee sheep display large, substantial size reflecting their breeding for western range conditions where size advantages survival and productivity. Ewes typically weigh 150 to 200 pounds with rams ranging from 225 to 300 pounds, creating sheep that are among the larger wool breeds and comparable to many meat breeds in frame size. This substantial body size provides both adequate capacity for significant wool production and sufficient meat yield for market lamb operations. Body conformation shows good depth, width, and balance with well-sprung ribs, level toplines, and moderate muscling throughout the body without extreme bulkiness.

The Targhee fleece represents a medium wool type, with fiber diameter typically measuring 21 to 25 microns, placing it between fine wools like Merino and coarser longwools. This micron range creates versatile wool soft enough for many apparel applications while maintaining durability and processing ease. The fleece covers the body extensively, growing over the belly and down the legs to the knees and hocks, providing substantial wool coverage without extreme facial wool creating management problems. Staple length at annual shearing typically measures 3 to 5 inches, with fiber showing good crimp definition creating the wavy appearance characteristic of quality wool suitable for both commercial and hand spinning markets.

Fleece characteristics include good uniformity across the body, an important trait for commercial wool processing where inconsistent fiber creates handling difficulties and reduces value. The wool shows adequate brightness and luster for its micron count, with clean white color providing versatility in processing and dyeing. Annual fleece weights typically range from 10 to 16 pounds depending on sex, age, and management, providing substantial clip value from each animal. The combination of adequate fineness, good staple length, and heavy fleece weights creates wool clips that generate significant income for range operations while being appropriate for diverse textile applications.

Facial features show strength and alertness with straight or slightly Roman profiles, particularly in rams where masculine character is pronounced. Eyes are alert and bright, typically dark in color. Ears are medium-sized and carried horizontally or slightly drooping. The breed is polled (naturally hornless), a characteristic selected for safer handling and elimination of horn-related injuries during close confinement in winter feeding or handling facilities. The polled nature represents practical advantage in operations where hundreds or thousands of sheep may be concentrated during certain management periods. Faces show minimal wool coverage, stopping at the forehead and around the eyes, preventing wool blindness while maintaining substantial fleece coverage on the productive areas of the body.

Legs display substantial bone and strong, sound structure essential for range travel and longevity in harsh conditions. Hooves are well-formed and dark, typically showing good resistance to foot problems when sheep are maintained on varied terrain rather than constantly wet conditions. Udders in ewes are well-developed and adequately sized for raising lambs, with most ewes successfully rearing singles or twins without difficulty even under range conditions with minimal intervention. The overall appearance suggests a large, substantial sheep built for survival and productivity in challenging environments, combining wool characteristics with practical body conformation and size. The breed's lack of excessive wrinkling and moderate features create sheep that are both productive and practical for extensive management systems where extreme specialization creates handling difficulties.

Targhee sheep display calm, steady temperaments that balance the docility necessary for handling with the alertness and flocking behavior essential for range survival. They are less flighty than some range breeds selected purely for survival without regard to handling, making them workable for routine care including shearing, health checks, and movement through handling facilities. This temperament reflects intentional selection during breed development, where extremely nervous animals created handling difficulties while overly docile animals lacked the vigilance necessary for range survival. The resulting balance creates sheep that are practically manageable while retaining appropriate wariness for predator awareness.

Flock behavior in Targhees demonstrates exceptionally strong herding instincts, with bands moving cohesively and maintaining tight group structure when traveling or responding to threats. This strong flocking behavior proved essential in breed development as range herders managing bands of hundreds or thousands of sheep required animals that stayed together rather than scattering across vast ranges. Leaders emerge within Targhee flocks, with experienced ewes guiding movement to water, bedding areas, and quality forage. Social hierarchies are maintained through positioning rather than aggressive confrontation, with serious fighting uncommon except occasionally between rams competing for breeding access during mating season.

Maternal behavior in Targhee ewes is strong and reliable, a critical characteristic for range operations where intensive lambing assistance is impractical. Ewes bond quickly with lambs, demonstrate attentive mothering, and successfully raise offspring under challenging conditions including cold weather, limited shelter, and large band situations where confusion could separate mothers from lambs. Most ewes lamb without assistance, with the breed selected for easy lambing and vigorous lambs that stand and nurse quickly. Milk production is adequate for raising singles or twins, with ewes typically producing sufficient milk even under range conditions with variable forage quality. This reliable maternal behavior reduces labor requirements and lamb mortality in extensive operations.

Ram behavior follows typical ovine patterns with increased assertiveness during breeding season, though Targhee rams generally remain manageable with appropriate facilities and respectful handling. Their substantial size demands caution during all interactions, particularly during rut when even normally calm rams become less predictable. However, their polled nature eliminates dangerous horn weaponry, improving safety during close work. Multiple rams can coexist in bachelor groups outside breeding season, though competition during breeding requires management preventing injury. Range operations often run multiple rams with bands of ewes, with ram groups establishing working hierarchies that reduce serious fighting while ensuring adequate breeding coverage.

Targhee intelligence and adaptability show in their learning of range patterns, water locations, bedding areas, and seasonal movement patterns. Experienced ewes remember traditional ranges, teaching younger animals through example and leading bands to resources. They adapt to changed circumstances including new ranges, different herding practices, or transitions between extensive and intensive management. Training for specific tasks proves effective when using patient methods, though their range heritage means they're less accustomed to intensive human interaction than some farm breeds. The breed's strong flocking instinct means group behavior dominates, with lead animals enabling management of entire bands through their cooperation. This combination of appropriate wariness, strong flocking behavior, reliable maternal instincts, and reasonable tractability creates sheep that are both practically suited to range environments and manageable for necessary human intervention during critical periods including lambing, shearing, and health management.

Targhee housing requirements are minimal in range operations, with sheep often receiving only windbreaks or simple shelters during extreme weather rather than enclosed housing. Their exceptional hardiness allows survival and productivity under conditions that would seriously stress less hardy breeds. However, lambing facilities improve survival rates even in hardy breeds, with clean, dry areas protected from wind and precipitation reducing lamb mortality during adverse weather. Winter feeding operations typically provide open sheds or three-sided shelters offering wind protection while maintaining good ventilation, with 12 to 16 square feet per sheep adequate when confinement is necessary during severe weather or feeding periods.

Fencing requirements depend on management system intensity, with extensive range operations often using minimal fencing, perhaps only boundary fences and fences separating seasonal use areas. Range bands are typically herded rather than confined by fences, with herders and guardian dogs providing control and predator protection. More intensive operations require woven wire fencing 4 to 5 feet high containing flocking animals that may push barriers when pressured. Electric fencing works effectively as perimeter protection or in rotational grazing systems. The breed's strong flocking instinct and calm temperament mean they're less likely to challenge fences than some nervous breeds, though adequate containment remains essential for legal and practical reasons.

Predator protection is critical across all Targhee operations, with extensive range operations particularly vulnerable to coyotes, mountain lions, bears, and wolves depending on region. Livestock guardian dogs represent primary predator protection for range bands, with operations often using multiple dogs per band providing overlapping coverage. Night corralling in predator-prone areas provides additional security. More intensive operations may combine secure nighttime housing, guardian dogs, guardian llamas or donkeys, and active predator management creating secure environments. Lambs are especially vulnerable during their first weeks, requiring protected lambing areas or intensive guardian animal presence for survival in predator-dense regions.

Pasture and range management for Targhees emphasizes extensive grazing utilization across large areas rather than intensive rotational systems, though the breed adapts to intensive management when necessary. Range operations typically use allotment systems on public lands, moving bands seasonally between low elevation winter ranges and high mountain summer ranges. This transhumance creates natural parasite control as seasonal moves to fresh range reduce exposure to larvae developing from eggs deposited during previous grazing. More intensive operations may use rotational grazing on private land, with quarter acre to one acre per sheep depending on forage productivity and climate.

Water access is essential year-round, with range operations often depending on natural sources including springs, streams, and developed water points. Winter water management preventing freezing is critical, though Targhees can utilize snow for moisture when liquid water is unavailable. Intensive operations use automatic waterers or regularly cleaned tanks ensuring constant access. Salt and minerals should be provided free-choice, with range operations using mineral feeders strategically placed near water or bedding areas encouraging regular consumption.

Handling facilities in range operations must accommodate large numbers of sheep efficiently, with designs including multiple pens for sorting, solid-sided races (alleyways) preventing sheep from seeing escape routes, and working areas for shearing, health procedures, and loading. Mobile facilities allow handling in remote locations. Intensive operations use permanent facilities with similar features scaled to flock size. Lambing facilities range from minimal in range operations (perhaps only protective areas near headquarters) to more elaborate in intensive systems with individual pens facilitating bonding and early care when needed. The breed's hardy nature and reliable maternal behavior mean elaborate lambing facilities are less critical than for more delicate breeds, though basic protection improves outcomes under adverse conditions.

Targhee sheep nutritional requirements reflect their large size and dual-purpose productivity, though their exceptional efficiency on marginal forage distinguishes them from less hardy breeds. Range Targhees often subsist primarily on native grasses, forbs, and browse during extensive grazing periods, demonstrating the breed's fundamental adaptation to variable forage quality and quantity. Their ability to maintain condition and continue wool production on forage that would cause weight loss in less adapted breeds makes them economically viable in extensive operations where supplemental feeding would be prohibitively expensive or logistically impractical.

Forage quality and availability vary dramatically by season and location, with summer mountain ranges typically providing abundant, nutritious vegetation while winter ranges or feeding periods require hay and potentially grain supplementation. Targhees efficiently utilize diverse vegetation types, grazing on native grasses during fresh growth periods, switching to forbs and browse as grasses mature and decline in quality, and traveling substantial distances to locate and utilize available nutrition. This foraging flexibility developed through decades of selection in variable range environments creates sheep that adapt dietary strategies to available resources rather than requiring consistent, high-quality nutrition year-round.

Winter feeding in range operations typically provides grass hay or mixed hay with limited or no grain supplementation except for ewes in late pregnancy or lactating with twins. Targhees maintain condition on moderate quality hay better than many breeds, requiring less supplementation for similar body condition and production. However, adequate nutrition during late pregnancy is critical preventing pregnancy toxemia, with ewes carrying twins benefiting from energy supplementation during the last six weeks of gestation. Daily hay consumption approximates 3 to 4 pounds per sheep, varying by hay quality, body size, and environmental conditions affecting metabolic demands.

Grain supplementation in Targhee operations ranges from minimal or absent in hardy range systems to moderate in more intensive management. Pregnant ewes particularly those carrying multiples may receive quarter pound to half pound daily grain during late gestation supporting fetal development and preventing metabolic disorders. Lactating ewes benefit from continued supplementation supporting milk production for twins. Growing lambs in intensive operations may receive grain accelerating growth, particularly feeder lambs being finished for market. However, many range operations minimize grain use, allowing lambs to grow on milk and forage alone, accepting slower growth rates offset by minimal input costs.

Mineral supplementation is essential for Targhee health, wool quality, and reproduction despite their hardy nature. Free-choice sheep-specific minerals providing trace minerals including zinc, selenium, copper (at levels safe for sheep), and iodine should be constantly available. Range operations strategically place mineral feeders near water sources or bedding areas encouraging regular consumption. Selenium supplementation is particularly important in many western ranges where soils are selenium-deficient, protecting against white muscle disease in lambs and supporting reproduction. Salt provision either separately or incorporated in mineral mixes ensures adequate sodium intake.

Water consumption varies dramatically by season, diet moisture content, and production status. Targhees consume approximately one to two gallons daily under moderate conditions, with consumption increasing substantially during summer heat or when consuming dry forage. Range operations depend on natural water sources strategically distributed across grazing allotments, with range management considering water availability in stocking decisions. Winter snow may provide moisture when liquid water is unavailable, though Targhees will utilize liquid water preferentially when accessible. Intensive operations provide constant access to clean water through automatic systems or regularly cleaned tanks, with lactating ewes having dramatically increased needs requiring vigilant monitoring.

Targhee sheep demonstrate exceptional health and hardiness, specifically bred to thrive under challenging range conditions with minimal intervention. Their genetic diversity from three foundation breeds combined with decades of selection under harsh conditions created sheep with robust immune systems, disease resistance, and ability to recover from health challenges that would seriously compromise less hardy breeds. However, Targhees face health challenges common to all sheep including parasites, foot problems, and pregnancy-related disorders. Their hardiness reduces veterinary costs and intervention frequency compared to more delicate breeds, making them economically attractive for extensive operations where intensive health management is impractical.

Targhee sheep reward appropriate management with years of productive service under conditions challenging for less hardy breeds. Their genetic diversity, decades of selection under harsh conditions, and balanced characteristics create resilient, long-lived animals requiring less intensive health management than specialized breeds. Maintaining flock records including health events, production data, and selection decisions enables continued improvement. The breed's hardiness makes them forgiving of management variations while responding positively to improved nutrition and care when economically justified, creating versatile sheep suited to diverse production systems from extensive range operations to intensive farms.

Handling Targhee sheep in range operations requires understanding their strong flocking behavior and utilizing proper facilities and techniques moving large numbers efficiently. Herding dogs trained for livestock work facilitate moving bands, with Targhees responding to pressure by moving cohesively rather than scattering individually. Working facilities with solid-sided races (alleyways) preventing sheep from seeing escape routes enable efficient movement through handling systems for shearing, health procedures, and sorting. Their generally calm temperament compared to extremely flighty range breeds makes handling more straightforward, though their large size demands respect and appropriate facility strength.

Shearing occurs annually in spring typically before sheep move to summer ranges, harvesting fleece while avoiding heat stress from carrying full wool during warm weather. Range operations often utilize contract shearing crews with mobile equipment moving between operations, handling hundreds or thousands of sheep efficiently. Proper fleece handling including skirting (removing inferior fiber and contaminants) improves wool quality and value. Timing shearing after severe weather passes but before heat arrives balances fleece quality with animal comfort. Some operations shear twice annually in mild climates though annual shearing is standard for most Targhee flocks.

Hoof care requirements vary by management system, with range sheep on varied terrain often needing minimal trimming as rocks and rough ground naturally wear hooves. Intensive operations require regular trimming every 6 to 8 weeks maintaining proper foot angle and preventing problems. When trimming is necessary, use sharp hoof shears removing excess growth while preserving correct foot shape. Check for foot rot or scald signs, treating infections promptly though Targhees typically show good foot health compared to breeds managed in constantly wet conditions.

Parasite management in Targhees emphasizes monitoring and strategic treatment rather than routine deworming. FAMACHA scoring identifies anemic individuals requiring immediate treatment, while fecal egg counts provide additional information about parasite burdens. Seasonal range movements create natural parasite control by moving sheep to fresh ground before larvae reach infectious stages. Targeted treatment preserves drug-susceptible parasite populations while controlling dangerous burdens, a critical approach given widespread dewormer resistance affecting all sheep operations.

Daily observation in intensive operations or regular checking in range settings enables early problem detection. Healthy Targhees are alert, grazing actively, maintaining appropriate body condition, and moving without lameness. Changes including isolation from flock mates, decreased grazing, obvious lameness, or unusual behavior warrant closer examination. Body condition scoring guides feeding and management decisions, ensuring sheep maintain adequate condition through seasonal fluctuations without becoming obese which complicates lambing.

Lambing management in Targhees ranges from minimal intervention in hardy range operations to moderate monitoring in intensive systems. Most ewes lamb successfully without assistance, with breed selection emphasizing easy lambing and vigorous lambs. Range operations may provide protected areas near headquarters during lambing season while accepting that many ewes will lamb on range with minimal observation. Intensive operations benefit from monitoring allowing prompt assistance if complications develop, though Targhee maternal behavior and lamb vigor mean intervention is less frequently necessary than in more delicate breeds. Checking newborn lambs ensures they're nursing and receiving colostrum, though vigorous Targhee lambs typically accomplish this without help when mothers have adequate milk.

Targhee sheep suit extensive range operations prioritizing hardiness and versatility, where their exceptional adaptation to challenging conditions creates economic advantages over less hardy breeds. Range operators with access to public land grazing allotments find Targhees ideal for mountain and high desert ranges requiring sheep that thrive under minimal intervention. Their strong flocking behavior facilitates herding management of large bands, while their size provides adequate wool and meat returns justifying extensive grazing costs. However, Targhees also adapt successfully to more intensive operations, making them versatile for diverse production goals.

The breed's dual-purpose characteristics suit operations seeking both wool and meat income, with neither product extreme but both adequate for market requirements. Wool quality falls in the medium range commanding decent prices without the premium of superfine wool or the disadvantage of extremely coarse fiber. Lamb growth provides adequate meat production without the extreme growth rates of specialized terminal sires, creating versatile sheep where ewes produce quality wool while also raising market lambs. This balance suits diversified operations better than highly specialized single-purpose breeds.

Space requirements favor operations with substantial acreage, particularly in western states with extensive rangelands. Half acre to one acre per sheep on rangeland provides adequate grazing, though they adapt to smaller intensive operations with quality pasture and supplemental feeding. Urban or small suburban properties lack space for optimal Targhee management, though rural properties with 10+ acres can support small flocks under intensive management. The breed's greatest advantages emerge in extensive systems utilizing the harsh-environment adaptations for which they were specifically developed.

Climate considerations favor challenging environments where Targhee hardiness provides advantages over more delicate breeds. They excel in areas with harsh winters, dramatic temperature fluctuations, altitude changes, and variable conditions stressing less hardy animals. Mountain states, northern plains, and high desert regions suit Targhee characteristics perfectly. While they adapt to milder climates, their full advantages emerge under conditions that challenge other breeds. Operations in moderate climates might find other breeds more economically optimal unless hardiness remains a priority.

Zoning regulations in western states typically accommodate range sheep operations on agricultural land, though regulations vary by county and intended use. Urban and suburban areas generally prohibit or severely restrict livestock, making Targhees impractical for most populated settings. Public land grazing permits require specific authorization and compliance with range management regulations. Prospective range operators must understand permitting processes, grazing fees, and management requirements before acquiring Targhees for range operations. Intensive operations on private land face standard agricultural zoning considerations.

Financial considerations for range operations include livestock acquisition costs, guardian dogs, herding equipment, permits, and annual operating expenses including veterinary care, shearing, transport, and marketing. However, per-animal costs are low compared to intensive operations as natural forage provides most nutrition. Targhees' hardiness reduces veterinary and supplementation costs compared to less hardy breeds. Wool and lamb sales provide income, with profitability dependent on operation scale, management efficiency, and market prices. Small intensive operations face higher per-animal costs but can access direct marketing and specialty wool markets improving returns.

Prospective Targhee owners should honestly assess whether their management system, available resources, and production goals align with breed characteristics. Range operators in harsh western environments find Targhees specifically suited to their needs, providing hardiness and productivity other breeds cannot match under similar conditions. Intensive operators seeking hardy, versatile sheep for farms in challenging climates also benefit from Targhee characteristics. However, operations prioritizing extreme wool fineness, maximum meat growth rates, or specialized production might prefer more specialized breeds. Those seeking hardy, balanced, low-maintenance sheep for demanding environments find Targhees excellent choices, while operators in mild climates with intensive management capabilities might optimize returns with breeds selected for those specific conditions.