From their origins on the remote islands of Shetland, Scotland; to the flocks currently flourishing on the Canadian prairies – meet this unique breed of colourful, hardy, and delightful sheep.
The breed has evolved in Shetland for over a thousand years, likely arriving there from Scandinavia with Norse settlers. Like other animals adapted to that harsh and beautiful land they are small, and very hardy. Their innate thriftiness and the good mothering characteristics of the ewes make Shetlands a good choice for beginning shepherds.
Handspinners and felters enjoy working with Shetland wool because of its lovely handle and crimp. Shetland fleece is soft and dense, and comes in an amazing array of colours. Eleven main colours have been identified, with endless variations. There are also more than 30 patterns and markings, each described with unique words from the Norse-influenced Shetland dialect.
From fine lace to an iconic Fair Isle sweater, there is a Shetland fleece suitable for almost every project. Shetland wool dyes beautifully, and overdyeing the natural colours produces wonderfully unique shades. Shetland wool is also good for felting.
Registered Shetland Flocks in Manitoba
The Manitoba Shetland Sheep Project is a group of shepherds working together to –
- share knowledge, support, and resources
- coordinate our breeding programs for the long term benefit of our flocks
- promote the breed, encouraging more farmers to raise Shetlands and more crafters to discover Shetland wool.
Our flock goals include:
- hardy healthy sheep with spirit and charm
- good conformation
- excellent mothering ability
- dense crimpy fleeces in a wide range of colours
These characteristics are detailed in the 1927 Shetland Sheep Standard and should be found in all Shetland flocks.
We strongly encourage breeders to register their animals in order to help preserve the genetic diversity of the breed in Canada. We hope to add more registered flocks to the project soon!
Want to find out more about Shetland sheep, starting your own flock, or sourcing fleeces?
email us at: mbshetlandsheep(at)gmail(dot)com
