Merino sheep originated in Spain but trace their ancestry to Asia Minor through North Africa. They arrived in Africa in 1789 via Spanish imports and spread widely by the mid-1800s. In 1891, American Vermont-type Merinos were introduced, producing the African Merino—a composite of Spanish, Saxony, Rambouillet, American, and Australian Merinos. In Kenya, they thrive in semi-arid to sub-humid climates at medium to high altitudes under ranching and agro-pastoral systems. The breed tolerates high rainfall grasslands and resists fly strike due to its smooth body compared to folded-skin sheep.
Merinos are uni-coloured, with white fine wool. Males reach 100 kg, while females reach 60 kg at maturity. Female weights at birth, weaning, and 18 months average 3.58 kg, 15.53 kg, and 56.2 kg, respectively. These sheep show strong mothering instincts, excellent flocking behavior, and efficient grazing capacity. They are hardy, adapt well to diverse climates, and perform effectively under intensive and semi-intensive management. Flocks in Kenya have declined since the collapse of the wool industry, with small populations remaining mainly in government stations and farms.
Merino wool is their primary product. Ewes produce an average of 7.15 kg annually (range 2.6–9.7 kg). The wool is medium to strong white, over-crimped relative to similar-strength Merino wool, with a 22–23 micron diameter and 7.1 cm staple length (range 5.97–8.29 cm). Physical traits include medium, erect ears and pale skin; males may be horned or polled. Rams weigh 80–105 kg, and ewes 55–80 kg. Birth weights range from 2.5–3.5 kg. Ewes lamb first at 15–18 months, with fertility rates of 82–90.7%.
Overall, the Merino remains a dual-purpose breed valued for fine wool, resilience, adaptability, and productivity in African climates.