Shepherds in ancient Israel likely worked with, among others, the broadtail Syrian variety of sheep, which have large fatty tails and a thick fleece.
Tõenäoliselt pidasid muistse Iisraeli karjased muu hulgas Süüria tõugu laiasabalisi lambaid (Ovis laticaudata), kellele on omane suur rasvane saba ja tihe vill.