Poonchi: A Threatened Sheep Breed of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Poonchi is a medium sized sheep distributed mainly in Poonch district of Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. Poonch is a remote district of Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir. The Gujjers and Bakarwal inhibiting Poonch and Rajori have developed excellence in sheep rearing practices since times immemorial. Topography of Poonch is hilly and mountainous forming many low lying beautiful valleys and this topography provides excellent space and grazing lands for excellent sheep rearing. The sheep farmers of Poonch district are economically backward, possessing average land holding of 3.95 kanal / farmer. Agriculture is core economic activity of sheep farmers of Poonch to meet household necessities. The Poonchi sheep are mostly white in colour. Although some black and spotted sheep are also common. The body length, chest girth and body height of adult Poonch ewes are 55.71 cm, 71.63 cm and 57.00 cm, respectively. The body weight of adult Poonch sheep varies from 28-38 kg (male) and 26-34 kg (female). Similarly, body weights of male and female hoggets range between 20-26 kg and 19-25 kg, respectively. Therefore, conservation initiatives are imperative to preserve this breed, requiring collaborative efforts from governmental agencies, local communities, and researchers. Strategies should focus on enhancing breeding programs, protecting natural habitats, and promoting the economic value of the Poonchi sheep's products.