Swaledale

The Swaledale is a breed named after the Yorkshire valley of Swaledale. The sheep are found throughout the more mountainous areas of Great Britain, but particularly in County Durham, Yorkshire, and the lower fells of Cumbria. Swaledales are noted for their off-white wool and curled horns.

Well suited to the exposed regions in which they predominantly live, the Swaledales are hardy, thick coated, able bodied, and bold.

The ewes make excellent mothers and are known for being able to rear lambs well, even in adverse conditions. They are of a medium build, with black faces, marked with white, and both males and females grow curled horns. Their fleeces are thick, straight, and sometimes just a little coarse.