Texel Sheep originated on the island of Texel off the coast of Holland. Sheep have populated the island since Roman times. Some infusion of breeding with British breeds took place. Over the last two centuries, selection was based on heavy muscling, leanness, adaptability to temperature extremes and its ability to forage with little grain supplement.
The importation of Texels into the USA began in 1985 with an import from Finland to the USMARC station at Clay Center, Nebraska. The Texel breed became available to US sheep breeders in 1990. Mature Texel rams weigh about 225# and ewes about 150#. They have black hooves, mouth and nose, Their heads and legs are wool free.
