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2008 Watchlist;
Category 6: Other Native Breeds
This ancient breed of
sheep originating from Scotland and the Western Isles is
thought to have descended from stock brought over from
Scandinavia by the Vikings. Their colour, flowing horns
and delicate bones give an attractive and unusual
appearance. Historically a popular parkland breed they
are an easily managed cost effective and hardy sheep.
A small, fine boned sheep both sexes having two or more
horns. Ewes typically weigh about 36kg, rams
proportionately more. The short, woolly tail does not
extend below the hocks.
The wool is black but
fleece tips may become sunbleached, to brown. Some sheep
go grey with age, particularly on the hind-quarters and
hand-spinners and weavers seek selected fleeces on this
basis.
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