Dubbed the "Cutest sheep in the world" and the "Teddy bear sheep with a smile", the Valais Blacknose and the Babydoll Southdown sheep bring joy to anyone who sees them. Our Cotswold sheep, with their long, lustrous fleece, are renowned for their excellent wool quality. We added the sheep in 2022. All of our flock is registered in VBSS, NABSSAR, or ACRA for their respective breeds. Come see these unique breed of sheep and enjoy what we have dubbed their 'baaah-stan symphony' from the flower fields.

Our flock consists of 13 sheep as of October 2023:

• One - F2 Valais Blacknose Ram

• One - F2 Valais Blacknose Ewe

• Five - Babydoll Southdown Wether/Ram (black, off-white)

• Four - Babydoll Southdown Ewes (1 black, 3 off-white)

• Two - Cotswold Ewes

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All of our sheep here on the farm are naturally hornless (polled), yes, even the two Valais F2s. Our breeding program centers on selecting for polled traits and creating a more compact Valais Blacknose sheep. We're committed to preserving the charm and gentle nature of the Valais Blacknose breed while also working towards a more manageable and space-efficient sheep. Our two breeding goals on our farm are:

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1. Polled Valais Blacknose Sheep: We aim to breed and develop polled Valais Blacknose sheep, a breed we adore for its endearing charm and gentle disposition.

2. Compact Valais Blacknose Sheep: In addition to being polled, we are working to breed a more compact Valais Blacknose sheep, which allows for even more efficient land utilization without compromising their unique qualities.

Selecting polled sheep, or sheep without horns, offers several advantages in a farming and husbandry context, aligning with our commitment to animal welfare and safe, efficient farming practices. Here are some reasons why we are aiming to breed polled sheep:

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1. Safety: The most compelling reason for selecting polled sheep is safety, especially in settings where there are children, inexperienced handlers, or other animals. Horned sheep can pose a risk of injury through accidental headbutting or entanglement, whereas polled sheep eliminate this danger.

2. Ease of handling: Polled sheep are generally easier to manage and handle, making tasks like feeding, grooming, and medical care less stressful for both the animals and their caregivers.

3. Improved space utilization: Without horns, they are less likely to become entangled in fencing or other structures, allowing for more efficient use of available land.

4. Animal welfare: Polled sheep may experience fewer injuries or discomfort related to horn growth. Promoting animal welfare by breeding for polled traits aligns with ethical and humane farming practices.

Our animals are not just livestock; they are cherished members of our farm family, and their well-being will always be at the heart of everything we do. We invite you to be part of our journey as we work to tease out the polled Valais Blacknose sheep genetics to life, all while nurturing a secure and sustainable farming environment.
 
If you have any questions or want to learn more about our breeding program, please reach out.

 

We eagerly anticipate the arrival of lambs in spring 2024!