Did you know that there are over 1,200 breeds of domestic sheep?!
And not only that, but they’re also emotionally complex, which leads to an incredible range of ewe-nique characters 😉.
They’re intelligent animals with social structures, and even know how to self-medicate through recognising different types of vegetation!
I’ve always been interested in farm animals and have fond memories of visiting rare breed centres in the school holidays with my family. I remember back in 2015, I visited Exeter Cathedral after spotting a link on Twitter where I saw sheep wandering around over there!
Turns out it was the launch of a project: One Hut Full, which celebrates the rich traditions of farming on Dartmoor. The star guests of this event were the Whiteface Dartmoor sheep, a breed which epitomises the moor and its heritage. This hardy breed is indigenous to Devon, and, in fact, helped shape the wild Dartmoor landscape which we know and love today. They have been grazing it for three thousand years if my memory serves me correctly. Not only have they done this, but they have partly helped shape the Exeter skyline – money from the wool trade paid for the construction of the magnificent Gothic Cathedral.
I remember loving the powerful and moving short film screened in the hut – I ended up watching it four times! I was also lucky enough to share the experience with a lovely lady who had farmed sheep on Dartmoor all of her life. She decided to visit because her great-grandchildren had the day before and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I still remember to this day watching the rams being led down the aisle of the cathedral; what a special yet surreal moment! A ‘shear’ pleasure!
Now, every time I spot some fluffy friends on my ramblings, I think back on the amazing day I had, and how much I learned about these incredible animals.
I was sad to read about the passing of Paula Wolton, the project lead of One Hut Full. It was a privilege to have met her, from a few short conversations I could tell what a talented, intelligent and caring lady she was. I do hope that her enthusiasm and vision of sustainable goods (clothing and furniture – yes, made from wool!) will live on, and that we can help preserve the rich history of Dartmoor through the protection of the Whiteface Dartmoor sheep, who are, unfortunately, at risk.
Just remember that next time you see cute sheep grazing in a field, that these precious, woolly friends are complex beings. Also, now is a great time to see some lambs, so do go out and get a glimpse of those adorable things if you can!
