Valais Blacknose Sheep
The World’s Cutest Sheep were once only found in remote villages in the mountains of Switzerland. Our goal at SPOOKY NOOK FARM is to change that fact. Our breed up program aims to now bring them directly to you!
We are very excited about our new breeding program for Valais Blacknose Sheep! These sheep are called “the cutest sheep in the world”! Native to Switzerland, Valais sheep are not allowed at this time to be imported to the United States. We have implemented a program under the direction of Shepherds Lane Farm of Oregon, of artificially inseminating a host ewe with the semen of a top Valais Ram to produce our stock. The first generation were born in April of 2020, and these are referred to as “F1” sheep. They are 50% Gotland sheep from Scotland, and 50% Valais sheep . When the female F1 sheep are mature enough to breed, their offspring will be considered “F2” and will then become 75% Valais. This will continue until we reach maximum genetics. Not only are these sheep adorable, they are extremely affectionale with amazing dispositions! Like puppies! They make excellent pets for anyone who wants a cute little fur ball to cuddle with!
The Cutest Sheep in the World
The Valais Blacknose Sheep are considered not only to be one of the friendliest breed, but have gained the recognition and title of “The World’s Cutest Sheep!” Their amazing images have taken social media and the world by storm. With long white spirals of shaggy wool and adorable blackfaces along with an extra sociable personality – it’s easy to see why millions have fallen in love with the Valais Blacknose!
Increasing public demand to learn more about this rare breed and obtain these gentle giants is documented in countless media articles.
Learn more and read below:
The History of Valais
The Valais Blacknose Sheep, German: Walliser Schwarznasenschaf originated back in the 15th century from the Valais Canton region of Switzerland, but were not recognized as a breed until 1962. They are considered a rare breed of sheep. The Valais Blacknose actually were declining in numbers early in the 20th century, but most recently – with the assistance of social media have seen quite a resurgence. Once found only in remote villages of Switzerland, they have now expanded to Germany, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.
Valais Breeding in the United States
Valais Blacknose Sheep in the U.S.
Worldwide Valais sheep numbers are estimated under 19,000, leading them to be categorized formally as a rare heritage breed of sheep. European laws do not allow you to bring sheep into the United States, however in late 2016, the United States was granted approval to allow the importation of pure-bred semen to be shipped in for elite special breed-up programs,like ours! In late 2020, we were also allowed to bring embryos from donor rams and ewes into the United States to be implanted into our specially selected foundation ewes. This process is called EMBRYONIC TRANSFER and would be similar to the in vitro process for human beings.