When I first laid eyes on this section of the show at Westmoreland, I was immediately struck with a degree of familiarity... could this be an Aussie Merino here in the UK? I didn't think there were any, but it turns out, there are a handful of farms now taking the chance on reintroducing the Merino here... read this article, if that interests you (some great images!)
However, this is not a Merino. It is a Ryeland, which, it transpires, is a distant cousin of the Merino. Although lost to the 'mists of time' (per the excellent history page on the breed society's webpage, which is a fab read and I recommend it), it is believed this West Country sheep breed grew from Merino stock some 700 years ago. It is one of the oldest established breeds in the UK and, like its cousin, is renowned for its superior wool quality. It produces very soft, skin-worthy yarn, having great loft and crimp, and a staple length between 7 and 10 cm (between three and four inches).
It's hard not to look at these and think 'teddy bear!' and want to cuddle up to one!
I leave this post with a rose for Rosy... and in case you missed it yesterday, a reminder that next week is FFF time again!
Thank you for this post. It led me to read up more about Merino and Reyland breeds. My curiosity also led me to a breed called Scotch Blackface. Very interesting.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
DeleteScottish Blackface (only the Americans would rebrand it as 'scotch') is a hardy hill sheep and one I know so very well as that is mainly what my shepherding family used to run. There were none at Westmoreland, because it is an English show concentrating on English flocks. Yxx
I must admit I would have thought that was a Merino. But there you go. You dont get many sheep of any type in suburban Melbourne, so maybe I have an excuse!
ReplyDeleteCheers - Stewart M - Melbourne
Great to read your post , Beautiful pics.
ReplyDeleteThe sheep does look like a cuddly teddy bear that you just want to hug and the rose is just beautiful!
ReplyDelete“Aussie” Merino seems like a total contradiction. Australia had no sheep at all until the Europeans introduced them, and there are those who contend that was a grave mistake.
ReplyDeleteHari Om
DeleteGood discussion...To your latter point, it is true that ultimately, the introduction of sheep to Australia presents a trade-off between economic gain and environmental cost. The sheep industry built part of the nation's wealth, but the long-term environmental consequences are still being felt today. There are ongoing efforts to mitigate the negative impacts through practices like holistic grazing, but it's also true the damage caused by sheep in Australia may be difficult to undo.
As to the first, The Australian Merino is no contradiction insofar as it is a breed developed distinctly within country. Of course, all sheep were imported from Europe, but the Aussie Merino is 'true blue'. The sheep itself cannot be blamed for what the humans created. If you care to, you can read about the history and different breed strains on the AASMB page. Yxx
Hello,
ReplyDeleteThe sheep do look cute and cuddly. Love your pretty rose!
Take care, have a great day and a happy weekend.
You never cease to amaze with the variety of sheep you bring here.
ReplyDelete'teddy bear!' and want to cuddle up to one! my exact thoughts and what a precious face.
ReplyDeleteLoving the red rose for Rosy
Hugs cecilia
What a nice looking sheep....and now I want to head out and find some soft merino wool!
ReplyDeleteDocility thy name is sheep!
ReplyDeleteso sweet laying down, not a common sight to see them laying down and I love it no matter what breed it is
ReplyDeleteThat sheep does look kind of cuddly, but I don't think it would like to cuddle up to me. BOL!
ReplyDelete