Vol. 10, Special Issue 10 (2025)

Coimbatore sheep, locally known as Kurumbai Adu or Coimbatore Kurumbai, represent an important indigenous breed of Tamil Nadu that has historically contributed to the livelihoods of the Kurumba shepherd community. However, this breed has witnessed a significant population decline over the past decades, primarily due to genetic dilution, habitat shrinkage, and changing agricultural practices. The present study aims to document the current status, morphological features, production and reproductive performance, and conservation strategies for the Coimbatore sheep.
Data were collected from native tracts of Coimbatore district and related literature, focusing on flock management, phenotypic traits, and migratory patterns. Morphological observations revealed that the breed is medium-sized with a compact body, predominantly white with variable black or tan patches, and characterized by coarse carpet-grade wool of about 0.4 kg annual yield. Production performance indicated moderate growth, with adult males and females weighing approximately 25 kg and 20 kg, respectively. Reproductive traits such as 80.5% lambing rate, 7-month lambing interval, and 5% twinning rate underscore its adaptability under semi-arid pastoral systems.
Population data show a drastic reduction from 2.42 lakhs in 2006 to just 41,154 in 2013, raising concerns of breed extinction without urgent intervention. Conservation efforts must prioritize both in-situ and ex-situ strategies, including establishment of organized breeding farms, genetic characterization, semen banking, and community-based flock management. Promoting niche markets for native wool and meat, coupled with GI tagging and awareness programs, can revitalize interest among farmers. The study underscores the need for sustainable conservation and scientific management to preserve this valuable genetic resource for future livestock improvement programs.