Shearing Time in the Valley

By Chris R.

With the onset of spring, it was time for the flock to lose their fleeces. It is important that shearing be done early enough in the season to prevent fly strike in our wool friends, as it can cause them much pain and distress. 

Our favourite shearer, Brad, was happy to assist, taking great care of our rescue sheep through their shearing encounter.  

The teenagers were first. They appeared confused and unable to recognise their sheep kin after shearing. They chased each other until realising who each was with their new look.

Lucas was next. He produced a fine merino fleece which was set aside for our local ethical crafters. The main adult flock was then shorn, with each sheep watching in amazement until the job was complete.  

The alpacas after shearing.

The bagged fleece.

Finally, a light spray was given to take care of any lice. We then watched the newly shorn residents get their zoom on, enjoying laps of the paddock now free of their heavy winter coats.  

A number of the sheep at Possum Valley are self-shedding, meaning their coats will naturally come away as the weather warms.  These including Digby, who is a Damara, and Brownie and Frosty, who are Dorpers. Their hair like coat will come away without the need for shearing. These sheep can commonly be found rubbing on fence rails and trees, assisting their coats in coming away in time for summer.