Shetland Sheep

    Shetland Sheep are an ancient breed from-yep-the Shetland Islands, Scotland.  They have lived in the United States off and on over the years--Thomas Jefferson even had a flock at Monticello.  However most current day Shetlands descended from a flock that arrived in North America in 1980.  They are a small sheep breed--usually 75-120 lbs or so.  Shetlands are hardy, disease and parasite resistant and can do well on sparse pastures.  They are also excellent mothers and often have lambs in multiples.  While they are considered a triple-purpose breed, meaning they can be raised for wool, milk and meat they are mostly prized for their wool.  A Shetland's wool is valued by fiber artists as it is fine, soft , strong and comes in a range of colors.  

    At Pine Meadows, while Shetlands are a resilient breed, ours are a bit babied.  They are rotated on our pastures and have access to quality hay as well.  We provide mineral supplements, too.  We want our sheep healthy and happy and we really enjoy caring for them.  They are a docile and friendly breed-they love their treats and will come running if they know you have some.  They are also curious-maybe even nosey-they run from fence line to fence line watching us work throughout the day and are always looking to see what we are up to.   

    We are members of the North American Shetland Sheepbreeders Association (NASSA) as well as The Livestock Conservancy.   All of our sheep are registered with NASSA.

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