Engadine sheep

Ram with characteristic convex nose and lop ears (Christian Gazzarin)

Origin and development

The Engadine sheep developed in the once isolated Engadine valley from the Steinschaf of the Eastern Alps. Large-framed sheep of various colours, influenced by the Bergamasca sheep, were brought by Tyrolean itinerant shepherds to the mountain pastures of the Lower Engadine, where they interbred with local varieties. Over the centuries, the harsh conditions of mountain life selected robust and mobile sheep which were highly docile and are now notable for their friendly nature. The Engadine sheep and its ancestors were bred for several purposes – i.e. wool, meat and milk were all equally important. At the beginning of the 20th century, as a result of increased demand for brown wool, breeders favoured the reddish-brown animals also known locally as Father Sheep (Romansch: besch da pader).

Description

Distinctive features of this breed are its lop ears and convex nose. It has a spirited gait and hard hooves, resistant to foot rot. It is mostly brown in colour (various shades), but it may also be black. Its vigour and robustness make it relatively easy to keep. The estrous cycle is non-seasonal, with short intervals. Combined with a high twin lambing rate, this leads to excellent fertility traits, and this breed can therefore also be used for high performance commercial sheep farming. Lambs are subject to extensive fattening, with no risk of excess fat development at a higher age. The tasty, fine-fibred meat was praised in historical documents and is becoming increasingly popular. Another particular feature of this breed is its goat-like foraging behaviour, making it suitable for efficient scrub clearance.

Engadine sheep often bear twins (Christian Gazzarin)

Breeding objectives

h Maintenance of hardiness, longevity h Maintenance of high fertility h Good rearing traits and milk production

References

Schweizerischer Engadinerschaf Zuchtverein (www.engadinerschaf.ch) ProSpecieRara (www.prospecierara.ch)