Icelandic sheep are, as you might imagine, native to Iceland. They are one of the oldest purest sheep breeds. Iceland has been very deliberate about not allowing mixed genetics to alter their beautiful heritage sheep breed.

 

These sheep are a short-tailed, mid-sized sheep, with stocky bodies and gorgerous curly wool. They grow to about 130-200 lbs at maturity. Interestingly, they have double-coated wool. This consists of the "thel", which is a fine, downy undercoat around 18-22 microns. The "tog" is a strong, water-repellent wool with a higher micron count of 27-30. The dual coat enables Icelandic sheep to withstand cold, wet environments with little additional protection. 

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Why did we choose Icelandics for our Indiana farm??

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We wanted a historically grass-fed breed, that were capable at birthing and mothering. We wanted a well-rounded sheep that would contribute in many ways for our farm. 

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Icelandic sheep were selected because they are a true tri-purpose breed; meat, wool and milk. Because they are very efficient grass grazers (no grain) their meat is clean and has a high level of Omega-3's. It has a very mild flavor, not at all "gamey", as some breeds tend to be. We use their wool for a variety of things, from spinning into yarn, and wet-felted items, to tanned pelts and mulching pads for our trees and garden. The milk from Icelandics is incredibly creamy and mild. As of yet, we have not fully milked our ewes, but hope to next year. Icelandic sheep cheese is on my mind!

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In addition to the tri-purporse nature of Icelandics, they of very prolific generally throwing twins, if not triplets, for many years. They give birth quickly and usually without serious complications. The lambs are often born on pasture or outside soon after birth. The last consideration for us were the horns. Besides the fact that they give our sheep a rugged and distinguished appearance, they can be saved after butchering to make horns, or shofars.

 

Animals are beings, with life and breath. We care for them with respect and make an effort to efficiently use everything they give us. Icelandics are truely a unique breed of sheep and possibly the most majestic creatures on our farm.

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Visit our Market page for more information about flock and meat purchasing.

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