Icelandic Sheep History & Facts
Icelandic sheep have a very long history, dating back over 1,100 years, and they still account for more than 25% of Iceland’s agricultural output. This makes them one of the oldest and purest breeds in the world today. They are a mid-sized breed and an excellent choice for small or large farm operations. Ewes typically average between 130 and 150 pounds, with rams weighing in between 175 and 200 pounds. They have wonderful conformation and their stocky build makes them a great selection for meat, milk and wool production.
Wool
Icelandic wool is known worldwide and presents fantastic opportunities for niche markets. They have a dual coated fleece with the outer coat (tog) reaching up to 15 inches. This is truly a delightful fiber. The inner coat (thel) is shorter and very soft.
Icelandic fleeces are loved by hand spinners. Beautiful roving and yarns can be made with this wonderful fiber. Finished products are unlimited with the different colors and yarn variations. Icelandic garments are some of the warmest available. Lopi has been popular for many years. The natural colors of the fleece set it apart from other breeds and it’s a favorite of many to work into beautiful yarn. Felting is becoming very popular and the Icelandic wool is one of the best for this craft. Numerous markets are available for Icelandic wool, which is shorn in the fall and again in the spring.
Color Patterns
Colors include black, moorit (browns), white, gray with solid, spotted, badgerface and mouflon patterns. The variations within these colors and patterns are endless. Icelandics can carry up to 17 different color and pattern combinations. The genetics of this breed are another whole education and we have much to learn. There is a great deal of information available and we’ll include a resource list on our site for those interested in learning more along with us!
Fertility & Reproduction
The ewes come into heat in late October and cycle through May, if they are not bred. Rams can begin breeding at 5-6 months of age. Ewes begin breeding at 6-7 months and can lamb before they are a year old! This is a very rapid return on investment.
- Gestation ranges from 142-144 days.
- Rams are mature by 6 months and can service 20 ewes.
- The Icelandics are excellent mothers with lots of milk and will nurse triplets without assistance.
- Icelandics have been known to be productive until 12-13 years of age.
- They have a good prolificacy rate, averaging 175-225%.
- Lambs reach market size in 4-5 months on good pasture.
Size
Mature weight of the ewes is up to 150 pounds with rams reaching up to 200. They are considered a mid-size sheep. The size of the Icelandics appealed to us as they are a easier to handle.
Easy Lambing
Another strong factor in our choice of Icelandics was their ability to lamb unassisted. Again, labor must be a consideration. The lambs are up and nursing within a few minutes of birth. Lambs grow rapidly off of milky mothers and good pasture.
The Icelandics have clean faces and legs. Their tails are naturally short and require no docking.
Good Mothers
Icelandics make wonderful mothers and take great care of their young. With an abundance of milk, the lambs are well fed and running around quickly. The ability to nurse up to three lambs is a great asset.
Foragers
The benefits of this characteristic are many! Grain is added cost and labor. Icelandics have roamed their home country for years through the summers with no intervention from their shepherds. Hay during the winter will keep them happy. This foraging capability was a big plus for Icelandics when we looked at different breeds.
Icelandics have survived for over a thousand years on pasture and hay. Lambs can reach finish weight within 3 to 4 months on good pasture. With the high cost of grain supplements, this is a definite advantage for this rugged, old breed.
A Multi-Purpose Animal
Icelandics are raised for breeding stock, meat, wool, milk, pelts and horns. They offer many options for the farmer including a small dairy, fleeces, roving, yarn, felt, knitted goods, and crafted items. Truly the only limitations are your imagination and energy!