HISTORY OF SHETLAND SHEEP
VIKING CONNECTION
It is believed that the Vikings introduced Shetland sheep, as we know them, to the Shetland
Islands.
SMALL HARDY SHEEP
They are a small, primitive and hardy sheep that thrive in the harsh conditions of the
Shetland Isles. Because of this they are ideal where grazing is of poor quality and
exposed.
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Above - Meet some of the gang: Molly (nearest the camera), Gambit (with horns), Coco
(very dark brown), and in the background, Lightyear and Gismo.
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ELEVEN COLOURS
The Shetland sheep today comes in 11 different colours with 30 different markings: the
names of these markings still highlight the heritage of the sheep, using the Shetland dialect
for the names of the colours. E.g., Moorit - reddy-brown, Katmoget -
dark belly, Skaela - silvery grey, and Gulmoget - light underneath.
NATURAL UNDYED COLOURS
For centuries the Shetlanders themselves have used the wool in its natural colours without
dying, and nowadays many people have discovered the wonderful variety that is available
and choose the Shetland fleece to use in its natural form.
FROM LACE TO CARPETS
On the Shetland Isles, crofters use the fleece for a variety of purposes - from the super fine
grade for lace making and shawls, to the heaviest grade for making carpets.
REMOVING THE FLEECE
Originally the fleece was roo'ed from the sheep - that is, rubbed or plucked. As the number
of sheep increased, then the need for mechanical or hand shearing with metal shears was
introduced. Indeed, the sheep themselves will 'strip' the fleece off if it is left too long, by
rubbing themselves along a convenient post or wall.
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