Pedigree Shetland Sheep in Dorset
the first flock in the uk to achieve SRUC MV and Johnes Monitored Status
The Shetland Breed
The Origins
Shetland Sheep originate from the Shetland Islands. They are classified as a northern short-tailed 'primitive' breed and have not been improved over the years to make them more commercially viable.
Shetland Sheep are no longer classified as a rare breed due to the success in breeding them in the UK outside of the Shetland Islands.
Characteristics
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Shetland Sheep are small, hardy sheep that were bred for their wool. Their fleeces are finest of all British breeds, second only in the world to merino.
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Their fleeces are naturally coloured and come in all shades of grey and fawn as well as white and black.
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Shetland ewes often have twin lambs which are born easily and sustained on prolific milk from their mothers.
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The meat is slow-grown and tasty, and is often eaten as hogget (over one year old).
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The sheep have naturally short tails and do not require docking.
