Fleece & Genetics
Our approach
Fleece first, always
At Thistledown, fleece is the primary measure of every animal in the herd. We test annually, track results over time, and make breeding decisions based on data as much as observation. Fine fleece that holds its micron through multiple clips is the goal -- not impressive maiden numbers that coarsen by year three.
Annual testing
How we measure
Every animal at Thistledown is tested annually by an accredited fleece testing laboratory. We record micron, standard deviation, comfort factor, staple length, and fleece weight at each clip. Results are kept on file and tracked year on year so we can see how each animal is performing over time and make informed breeding decisions.
Micron is the most commonly cited figure but it does not tell the whole story. Standard deviation matters -- a broad spread means inconsistent fibre diameter across the fleece, which affects handle and end-use quality. We breed for low standard deviation as well as fine micron.
We welcome enquiries for outside matings with Aurelius and Merrow, and occasionally have quality animals available.