Hu Sheep

Hu Sheep

　　Hu Sheep

　　The Hu Sheep is a rare and premium local breed of lamb.

　　The central and eastern parts of Deqing enjoy a moist climate with lush green grass. The Hu Sheep’s preferred feed—such as mulberry leaves, aquatic plants, and silkworm excrement—is abundant. Historical records indicate that the Hu Sheep were introduced from Mongolia during the Southern Song Dynasty. Over time, raising Hu Sheep became a traditional sideline for farmers, with nearly every household keeping them in pens.

　　The pelt of the young Hu Sheep is made by slaughtering a fine lamb that has just been born but not yet weaned from its mother, then processing the hide. It is a type of fetal wool fur, characterized by snow-white, glossy fur that has a silky sheen. The leather is thin, soft, and light, with sparse, coarse, and short fur. When shaken, the fur curls without standing up, and its patterns flow like drifting clouds and water—compact and never dispersing—offering an attractive and pleasing appearance along with a comfortable feel. Among global lamb pelts, it stands out uniquely. The young Hu Sheep pelt is widely used to make shearling coats, trimmed outerwear, spring and autumn fashion items, children's clothing, hats, shawls, and more, and is highly favored by consumers.

　　The young Hu Sheep pelt is an important specialty of China and also a traditional export product. However, Hu Sheep are raised only in the Hangjiahu area, which is the sole region in China—and indeed the world—where they are bred. Among these, Huzhou raises the largest quantity and produces the highest quality, hence the name “Hu Sheep.” In 1923, the young Hu Sheep pelt was first exported and quickly gained an outstanding reputation in the international fur market, earning the title of the “Soft Gem of the East” and becoming one of the world’s four most prestigious breeds of lamb pelt.