Once It’s gone, It’s gone: The Shetland Sheep, a brief breed history

Jan 24

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Shetland sheep are not only a historical breed with a rich legacy, but they’re also an important piece of the puzzle in sustainable farming. At Dalby Farm, we’re committed to preserving this remarkable breed by maintaining their genetic diversity and promoting their wool, while also ensuring their role in creating a more biodiverse and sustainable farming ecosystem.

Welcome to our latest installment of Rare Breed of the Week here at Dalby Farm! This week, we’re shining a spotlight on the Shetland Sheep, a hardy and adorable breed that’s been a part of farming and textile traditions for centuries. But did you know that this incredible breed is currently considered endangered? In today’s post, we’ll take you through the rich history of the Shetland sheep, how they became endangered, their current population status as of 2025, and the efforts we, along with other farms, are making to help preserve this rare and vital breed.

History of the Shetland Sheep

The Shetland Sheep originates from the rugged Shetland Islands, located in the far north of Scotland. These islands are known for their challenging terrain, extreme weather, and isolation, which has shaped the Shetland sheep into the hardy, adaptable creatures they are today.

Dating back to the Viking Age, the Shetland sheep have been an integral part of the islands’ culture. Originally bred for their wool, Shetland sheep produce incredibly fine and soft fleece, making it highly prized for spinning into yarn. Shetland wool has long been used in the creation of the famous Shetland sweaters and Fair Isle knitting patterns, which have become iconic symbols of Scottish heritage. Their wool isn’t just soft—it’s known for its durability and warmth, making it ideal for creating garments that withstand the harsh climates of the North.

While the primary reason for breeding Shetland sheep was their wool, they were also raised for meat and milk, providing crucial sustenance in an area with limited resources. Over time, they evolved into a small, sturdy breed well-suited to grazing the sparse vegetation of the Shetland Islands.

How the Shetland Sheep Became Endangered

Shetland sheep were once a crucial part of life on the islands, but as farming practices evolved, the breed faced serious challenges. The industrial revolution led to changes in agriculture, and commercial breeds of sheep, which were larger and more productive in terms of both meat and wool, became more popular.

As demand for fine wool decreased due to the rise of synthetic fibers and mass-produced textiles, the traditional breeds, like the Shetland sheep, started to fade from the agricultural scene. By the mid-1900s, the population of Shetland sheep had significantly dropped. The shift towards industrial farming and intensive breeding practices led to a decline in the numbers and genetic diversity of these incredible sheep. For a while, it seemed like this beautiful breed might disappear altogether.

Current Population Status in 2025

Fast forward to 2025, and while the Shetland sheep is no longer facing immediate extinction, they are still classified as an ‘at risk’ breed by conservation organizations like the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Today, there are only around 10,000 Shetland sheep left globally. While that may sound like a lot, it’s important to note that, considering the breed’s long history, that’s still a relatively low number.

Despite the decline, there is hope. Shetland sheep are small, hardy, and produce exceptional wool, making them a fantastic choice for smaller farms and homesteads. The majority of the population is still located in the UK, but there are growing efforts worldwide—especially here in the United States—to revitalize the breed and keep their genetic legacy alive.

How Dalby Farm and Other Farms Are Helping

At Dalby Farm, we are incredibly proud to be part of the effort to preserve the Shetland sheep. By raising these lovely creatures, we’re doing our bit to ensure their wool continues to be appreciated, and their genetic diversity is maintained. We employ sustainable farming practices that ensure these sheep are healthy, happy, and productive, just as they would be on their native Shetland Islands.

Here at Dalby Farm, we rotate grazing areas for our sheep, use natural remedies when necessary, and ensure they have plenty of room to roam. These practices mimic their traditional way of life, promoting both their well-being and the health of the land they graze on.

But Dalby Farm isn’t the only place helping to protect the Shetland sheep. Many small farms, heritage organizations, and wool producers around the world are also working hard to preserve this breed. By supporting Shetland sheep breeders, buying Shetland wool products, and sharing the breed’s story, people like you are helping to ensure that these sheep continue to thrive for generations to come.

In addition to their beautiful wool, Shetland sheep are valuable assets to biodiversity on farms. Their grazing habits help manage pasture, prevent overgrowth, and contribute to healthier ecosystems. Their small size makes them ideal for smaller, more diversified farming setups, like ours. It’s a win-win for both the environment and our farm’s sustainability.

Why It Matters

The Shetland sheep are much more than just a rare breed; they are a vital part of our agricultural and textile history. By supporting the conservation of breeds like the Shetland sheep, we are not only helping to preserve an ancient species, but we are also safeguarding valuable genetic diversity and promoting sustainable farming practices.

From their fine wool to their role in maintaining biodiversity, Shetland sheep are an essential part of both our farming traditions and our future.

How You Can Help

Interested in learning more about the Shetland sheep, or how you can support heritage breeds in general? Here are a few ways you can get involved:

Buy Shetland wool products: Supporting artisans who use Shetland wool helps maintain demand for the breed.
Visit a farm: Many farms, like ours, offer tours where you can see these wonderful sheep in person.
Support breeders and conservation organizations: Look for breeders who focus on preserving endangered breeds and support organizations that are working to ensure these breeds don’t disappear.

We’re proud to do our part here at Dalby Farm, and with your help, we can continue to share the story of the Shetland sheep and ensure they thrive for future generations.

Conclusion

If you're interested in learning more about Shetland sheep or supporting the preservation of rare breeds, be sure to check out the resources linked below. And don’t forget to share this post to help spread the word about these incredible sheep and the ongoing efforts to save them!

Join the Conversation

Have you ever worked with Shetland sheep or used Shetland wool products? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Drop a comment below or connect with us on social media.

Stay tuned for more rare breeds in our Rare Breed of the Week series, and thank you for supporting Dalby Farm and our mission to protect these incredible animals.

Kendall Ditommaso