WHITE FACED WOODLAND SHEEP
ORIGINS
Previously called Penistone, after the Yorkshire town where they were traded in the 17th century. The latter name is taken from an area between Derwent and Glossop in the Peak District.
CHARACTERISTICS
A hardy, robust sheep which can adapt to both its native hills, open woodland and lowland. This breed of sheep exhibit a large frame with a lean carcase and have a good mothering ability. They are white, have a broad face with pink nose and white legs which are free from wool. Rams have heavily spiralled horns. The white fleece is strongly grown and can cope with the harshest of weather.
LOCATION
Not numerous, the breed is classed as an endangered "vulnerable" rare breed by the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) and the Whitefaced Woodland Sheep Society (WWSS) and there are probably less 200 purebred breeding ewes across the UK that are registered with both these breed societies.
MAIN USES
Young fleece is particularly sought after as it is considered to be very fine for spinning and knitting. More established fleece is excellent to produce beautiful carpets. They are particularly good sheep for Conservation Grazing and can produce excellent lamb for the table.
