Awassi sheep are one of the oldest and most productive dairy sheep breeds in the world, originating in the Fertile Crescent region of the Middle East — modern-day Iraq, Syria, and surrounding areas. They have been raised by nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples for thousands of years, prized for their high milk production, adaptability to harsh climates, and steady temperament. Here at Marlboro Meadows Farm in Marlboro, NJ, we raise both adult Awassi sheep and lambs. For most visitors in Monmouth County, this is a breed they have never encountered in person — and that is a large part of what makes the experience so distinctive.

The fat tail is one of the most distinctive physical features of the Awassi breed — a large, broad tail that stores fat as an energy reserve. It is a survival adaptation developed over thousands of years in harsh desert climates, where food and water could be unavailable for extended periods. When grazing is scarce, the sheep draws on the fat stored in the tail to sustain itself, functioning similarly to how a camel uses its hump. During your visit, one of our farm guides will explain this adaptation in detail while you are standing with the animals. Seeing and understanding it firsthand is one of the highlights of the experience for guests of all ages.

Yes. Awassi sheep are known for their calm, sociable temperament, and our animals are well accustomed to human contact. The experience is fully supervised by our farm team from start to finish, and we welcome guests of all ages — including toddlers, young children, and guests with no prior animal experience. Children often find feeding a sheep from their hand to be one of the most memorable parts of the visit. Our team will guide your group through the interaction at a pace that keeps everyone comfortable.

When lambs are on the farm, meeting them is included in the Pet & Feed Experience at no additional charge. Lamb availability depends on the time of year and the breeding cycle. If meeting the lambs is a priority for your visit — especially if you are planning around a young child’s experience — we recommend reaching out before you book. You can call us at (732) 607-4422 or email info@marlboromeadowsfarm.com and we will let you know exactly what to expect.

The Pet & Feed Experience is $29 for a private group of up to 5 guests, with additional guests at $5 per person. Your group receives: hands-on time petting and feeding the Awassi sheep with approved farm treats, a guided introduction to the breed covering their Middle Eastern origins, the fat tail adaptation, their history, and their reputation for milk production, the opportunity to meet baby lambs when they are on the farm, and full supervision by our farm team throughout. The experience is private — your group will not be combined with other visitors.

Yes, and many families do. The Awassi Sheep Experience pairs well with our add-on options: you can add Goat Milking for $14.99 per person or a Pony Ride with Cosmo for $10 per person. Both are private add-ons that extend the visit without adding crowds. You can select add-ons when booking through our private tours page. Combining two or three experiences is a great way to give children a full, hands-on afternoon on the farm.

You can book the Awassi Sheep Experience through our private tours booking form. You are also welcome to reach us directly at (732) 607-4422 or info@marlboromeadowsfarm.com with any questions before you book. Our cancellation and deposit terms are outlined at the time of booking. We recommend reserving in advance, particularly for weekend dates and during spring lamb season when availability fills quickly.