14th Century
This small hill sheep is said to of been running in the Cheviot hills since records began. They are alert and active, often used to train sheep dogs. They have a distinctive ruff behind their ears and the rams can have horns.
Fleece Details
Breed History
The Cheviot Conservation sheep breed is a traditional breed of domestic sheep that originated in the Cheviot Hills, a range of rolling hills on the border between England and Scotland. The Cheviot breed is known for its hardiness, adaptability to various climates, and ability to graze on rugged and hilly terrains.
These sheep have distinctive characteristics that set them apart from other breeds. They have a medium-sized frame, a white fleece, and a distinctive bare face, meaning they have no wool on their face or legs. The lack of wool on their face makes them less susceptible to issues such as flystrike. They have alert, upright ears and strong, sturdy legs, which enable them to navigate difficult terrain. The Cheviot sheep have a good foraging ability and can graze efficiently on upland pastures.
The Cheviot breed is highly valued for its meat, which is known for its flavor and tenderness. The meat is lean with a fine-textured grain, making it popular among consumers. These sheep are also good mothers and are known for their high fertility and strong maternal instincts. They can produce and raise lambs even in challenging conditions.
In the UK, the Cheviot Conservation sheep breed is recognized as an important native breed that contributes to the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the country. Efforts are made to conserve and promote the breed to maintain its unique genetic traits and preserve its historical significance.
