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Moving the Sheep Inside

Three days ago we had unseasonably warm weather, but they predicted wind and snow coming. They were (at least partly) right.


We could have moved the sheep into the barn for the winter on that nice day. But we didn't. The truth is, they are not all that inclined to come in on nice days. They don't see the point of coming in, and they don't watch the weather forecast to see what's coming.


So yesterday, when the weather convinced them it was time to come in, we moved the sheep.


This is the latest we have ever moved sheep in. We've had essentially no snow. And while the sheep can surely handle snow (they're dressed for it, after all), we find it more difficult to feed them when there is a constant snow cover.


Happy New Year!
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Comments

  1. UnknownJanuary 3, 2012 at 10:13 PM

    I only have a small barn so they are only in at night, last year we had so much snow I often had to shovel paths for my my sheep and lambs

    ReplyDelete
  2. Jackie @ Auburn Meadow FarmJanuary 5, 2012 at 1:08 PM

    That's funny. I've been doing the same thing myself. Somehow I acted like the warm weather would never end and I sort of got caught having to do some tasks that would have been much more pleasant a week ago.

    My girls haven't reached the point where the discomfort outside is greater than their mistrust of their new barn - I give them another day or so : )

    ReplyDelete
  3. Jane EllenJanuary 6, 2012 at 7:25 PM

    I'm in Michigan also and we're just making plans to purchase and raise sheep. I've got millions of questions. What kind would you recommend we get, and where can I find them? Any tips would be appreciated.
    Blessing,
    Jane

    ReplyDelete
  4. LonaJanuary 8, 2012 at 8:50 PM

    Thanks for all the wonderful comments (and new blogs to visit)! Dandelion, I'd like to point you in the direction of a wonderful resource--the Michigan Sheep Breeders Association. Visit www.misheep.org for more information. We JUST finished our Annual Shepherds' Weekend, where we gather for education, networking, and fun. But even though you missed this year's Annual, you should really join (a steal at $20/year) and plan to attend next year. We hold a summer picnic at a different farm each summer, and you can begin to get to know folks then. You will also find a directory at the website, and maybe even be able to find out about mentors (there was talk of that this weekend, but it may not have hit the website yet).

    You need to ask yourself WHY you want sheep, and then find the breed that is most suited for you. Lawn mowers? Easy care as a kid-friendly experience? Wool? Meat? Money-maker? The answers to these questions will help you decide which type of sheep is best for you. Feel free to email me with specific questions (link in right sidebar), though I am not an expert.

    ReplyDelete

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