#zwartbles

1: Zwartbles 

I mostly like them because of the name, but these sheepies are actually very cool. They were imported to the UK from Holland in the 1990s, and they are very elegant and known for being striking and lively. (I misspelled lively as lovely and honestly, both words are true). 

2: Herdwick

A breed from the Lake District. They’re so pretty, but also seriously interesting. I’ll probably make another post at some point that’s more detailed, but rn basically they’ve been in and around the Lake District for centuries, and descend from the Northern Pin Tail group of sheep, which also includes breeds like Soay, North Ronaldsay, and Manx Loaghtan. They were also a favourite of Beatrice Potter. Since they remained isolated on the fells, they have kept a lot of the traits of the Northern Pin Tail group. 

3: Jacob 

I mean, look at them. Need I say more?

Well, I’m saying more anyway. These big lads have origins in the Middle East, and apparently references in the Old Testament of the bible. They’re known for being hardy, and also looking bloody awesome. 

4: Valais Blacknose

Known as the “World’s cutest sheep”, Valais Blacknose are fucking adorable, like they look like stuffed animals. I want to hug them. (I want to hug all sheep, honestly, but still). They originate from Switzerland, are sturdy and well adapted to the mountains, and deserve all the love 

5: North Ronaldsay 

These guys are my favourite. I love them. They come from the island of North Ronaldsay in Orkney, and are famous for eating seaweed. They are also the only domestic sheep still managed under a communal system of farming, which is very cool.