A new crossbred sheep being developed for the ovine milking industry by Maui Milk is thought to be a world first for sheep genetics.
The Southern Cross hybrid is a hardy dairy ewe suitable for New Zealand's conditions, it is a mix of east friesian, awassi and lacaune - all prominent Northern Hemisphere sheep milking breeds - and is built off a coopworth base.
Maui Milk general manager Peter Gatley said the breed would provide hybrid vigour and, over time, would hopefully become the sheep equivalent of the kiwicross cow, which was now the most popular choice of cow used in the dairy industry.
