VALAIS BLACKNOSE SHEEP
Ovis aries
The World’s Cutest Sheep…
These adorable sheep, known as being ‘the world’s cutest’, can be identified by their small black faces combined with soft white fleece, and the spiral horns found in both sexes One of the most unique aspects of the breed is their wool and they have the ability to produce approximately four kilos of it a year! The wool has varied uses ranging from carpets to felting.
History
The Valais Blacknose sheep breed has a long-standing history that potentially rolls back to the 15th century. Hailing from Switzerland, the dual-purpose breed is renowned for their abilities to withstand harsh climatic and environmental conditions. The Valais Blacknose has only recently made it to British shores, with the first animals arriving in the UK on the 14thof February 2014.
A Rare Breed…
There are estimated to be just 14,000 Valais Blacknose in existence. The breed is under threat in it’s native Switzerland due to the recent resurgence of wild wolves.
