If you look back at our beginnings you’ll see that at our previous abode on the Gulf Coast we had a flock of Royal White Sheep. We were initially attracted to sheep because we love the taste of lamb, and in those days, lamb wasn’t in the markets regularly.
Sheep do have drawbacks, particularly in humid, wet areas. They’re very susceptible to stomach parasites. All animals (even humans) have internal parasites, but sheep seem to be particularly vulnerable to them. Dry weather breaks the parasite life cycle in most parts of the country, but on the Texas Gulf Coast, the weather is never dry. Sheep-raising there was a challenge, but well worth it. Once we returned to Central Texas, we knew we would be adding sheep again as soon as possible.
Earlier this year we installed some additional “sheep proof” fencing to ensure their safety, and we traded a side of beef for 6 Dorper lambs. Earlier this week, we welcomed another 12 lambs into the flock. We hope to keep some females and start running a small flock (7-10) of breeding animals so that we’ll have plenty to share. It is a joy to have baby lambs on the farm as their boundless energy results in entertaining antics. Keep an eye out for unequalled cuteness in the spring of '22.
