Hi List
I am new to the list and new to sheep husbandry. I just got (arrived on
Wed) a small flock of ten American Blackbelly Sheep and I live in
Fountain, CO.
I look forward to learning a lot about my new flock of sheep. I spent
the morning separating my young rams from the main flock and found that
there is a lot I don't know. I thought I would share my thoughts on
some of it. I bet you have all been at this point and can appreciate my
position. Any and all input or suggestions are more than welcome :-)
Things I didn't know -
Lesson #1 When one sheep runs, they all run.
Lesson #2 Calm quiet sheep in a small confined area, all getting along
well, suddenly become independent testosterone filled hellions once
liberated.
Lesson #3 When not confined, boy sheep fight. With everyone. And if it
isn't enough to fight with the other boys and the girls a wooden box
will do just fine.
Lesson#4 It is not easy to separate sheep. I have a new admiration for
sheep dogs.
Lesson #5 No makeshift barrier is too tough for a sheep to tear down if
he is determined enough.
Lesson #6 See lesson #1. It is the true meaning of life.
Lesson #7 If one sheep comes, they all come.
Lesson #8 One person is almost too few to separate 3 sheep from the
flock.
Lesson #9 A portable panel is worth two humans.
Lesson #10 I can out-muscle three young rams, but not by much.
Lesson #11 Sometimes an open door is much scarier than being squished
in a very small space.
Lesson #12 When sheep are really worried, they lie down.
Lesson #13 I cannot move a reclining sheep.
Lesson #14 In retrospect I now understand why shepherds have "crooks".
Lesson #15 Patience is a virtue.
lesson #16 It takes about two hours to separate three rams from the
flock of 10 and get them into a stall on the other side of the barn.
Lesson #17 This is still easier than the Yaks!
Lesson #18 I need a really good breakfast. I think lamb chops are on
the menu.
Jann
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