The Manx Loaghtan is a very attractive sheep which makes a valuable contribution in a number of ways.
The Loaghtan is an ancient breed which demonstrates the characteristics of survival and longevity. There is a need to maintain its range of genetic qualities.
Pure-bred hoggets will produce a carcass of around 18kg – 25kg subject to age of slaughter. The meat has a good flavour and is very lean. Lambs can be slaughtered in the autumn when grass is running low. However, over-wintering lamb stock for slaughter the following summer will produce a fuller fleshed animal.
The wool of the Loaghtan is remarkably soft and sought after by hand spinners. Its unique colour and depth of colour range differentiates it from other breeds and makes it a popular choice for knitters and felt makers. It makes attractive light weight garments, spun, woven or knitted undyed. The Wool Marketing Board has exempted Loaghtan fleece from marketing restrictions which allows breeders to sell wool direct to spinners.
Loaghtans are becoming widely valued as ideal sheep for maintaining important areas of species-rich grassland. Their active browsing limits the growth of otherwise dominant plants such as hawthorn and coarse grasses. In turn, this allows higher levels of light and air through to the sward which also encourages the growth of wild flowers and herbs. Over time, grazing also reduces the soil’s nutrient levels and this too creates favourable conditions for the growth of wild flowers.