The Katahdin breed was developed as an answer to the need for a hardy meat sheep which requires no shearing but which can meet the North American industry standards for carcass quality. Rate of growth and muscling of the Katahdin surpasses other hair sheep breeds and is comparable to maternal-type wooled breeds. Katahdins naturally produce a lean carcass, and meat flavor is excellent. The shedding hair coat of Katahdin sheep provides adaptability to a wide range of environments, allowing tolerance of heat and humidity as well as very cold winter climates. Their lack of wool greatly reduces management requirements such as shearing, crutching and tail docking. In addition, heat stress is not a major factor detracting from the rapid growth of lambs and reproductive performance of ewes and rams.