By Jenny Greskovich, Livestock Manager

Visitors to Lake Metroparks Farmpark can now see three new Icelandic sheep! Staff lovingly refer to them as our “Viking” sheep as their breed has been relied upon by the Nordic people for centuries. Cinder is a gray ewe, Midnight is a black ewe, and Ivan is a white purebred ram lamb. Midnight gave birth to Ivan on April 14!

Ivan

Icelandic sheep were imported to Iceland by Nordic settlers in the ninth or tenth century. This breed remains virtually unchanged compared to other sheep; rather than being bred to have specific characteristics, these sheep are almost exactly like the wild sheep they descend from. They are hardy survivors able to withstand cold temperatures and forage for their food. They have even been known to eat and live off seaweed that washes up on the icy shores in Iceland.

This breed can be raised for meat, wool, and even milk, which is why they are so important to the people of Iceland. Today, Icelandic sheep still outnumber people in Iceland. Their double-layered wool is unique and makes for excellent yarn and felt. They can be many different colors and patterns and both males and females grow horns.

In the United States, Icelandics are usually raised for wool and meat, or their foraging instincts are put to good use as they manage pastures and properties.

Come out to Lake Metroparks Farmpark to visit the new “Viking” residents!

Cinder