Shearing Day at Rudge Farm
Springtime at Rudge Farm means one thing for our sheep—shearing day! As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it’s time for our fluffy flock to have their annual trim. With their thick, woolly coats, our Valais sheep need regular care to keep them comfortable and healthy. That’s where Andrew, our trusty sheep shearer, comes in.
Why Shearing is Essential
Valais sheep are known for their long, curly fleece, which makes them a striking breed to have on the farm. However, if left unshorn, their wool can become matted and uncomfortable, trapping dirt and moisture, which isn’t good for their wellbeing. Shearing helps keep them cool in the warmer months and prevents health issues like fly strike—a serious problem in sheep caused by flies laying eggs in damp or dirty wool.
How Often Do Valais Sheep Need Shearing?
Unlike some breeds that can go longer between shearings, Valais sheep benefit from being shorn twice a year—once in spring and again in late summer or early autumn. Their fleece grows quickly, and regular shearing ensures they remain comfortable throughout the seasons. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valais_Blacknose
A Day in the Life of Shearing at Rudge Farm
On shearing day, Andrew arrives early, ready with his clippers and years of experience. The sheep are gathered in the pen, where they wait their turn. One by one, Andrew expertly shears each sheep, working swiftly but gently to keep stress to a minimum. It’s always fascinating to watch him work—his skill and precision make the process look effortless.
The transformation is remarkable. In just a few minutes, each sheep goes from looking like a fluffy cloud to a sleek, freshly shorn version of themselves. They always seem a little surprised at first, but once they step outside of the pen, they quickly appreciate the lightness of their new look!
What Happens to the Wool?
After shearing, we collect the fleece and sort through it. Instead of letting it go to waste, we use the wool around some of our plants to stop slugs and snails from eating them. It acts as a natural slug repellent, helping to protect our garden in an environmentally friendly way.
A Fresh Start for the Flock
Shearing day is more than just a routine farm task—it’s a time to care for our animals and ensure they’re happy and healthy. With their fresh trims, our sheep are ready to enjoy the warmer months ahead, grazing the fields without the burden of their heavy winter coats.
Until the next shearing in autumn, they’ll be out in the pastures, looking fabulous and feeling fine! https://www.rudgefarmcottages.co.uk/facilities-at-rudge-farm-cottages/our-animals/
