Have ewe seen our sheep's new hair?
As part of our natterjack toad habitat management, we have a flock of Hebridean sheep who help to maintain grass levels. Short grass helps natterjack toads traverse to breeding grounds from hibernaculum (a place that amphibians shelter over winter) and refugia (cover that amphibians use in the summer). Unlike common toads, natterjack prefer to run instead of hop as they have shorter legs, and if the vegetation is too dense, they cannot move as freely.
Pre-shearing!
Other than being fed and checked daily, our sheep are relatively low maintenance, but come summer there is an important appointment – shearing. Recently, we welcomed Bill the shepherd and his sheepdog who rounded them up and took off their thick wool coats with great efficiency. Our Reserve Placement Annabelle had a go herself, learning some tricks of the trade.
Reserve Placement Annabelle shearing
At WWT Caerlaverock we shear our sheep for their welfare - it is crucial to ensure they are comfortable. At the same time, it gives us a good opportunity to give the sheep a pedicure. Keeping on top of their feet prevents infections, stops things getting caught in their feet and keeps them comfortable.
Post-shearing!
You might be thinking what do we do with the wool? We keep it and recycle it around the reserve. Previously, we have used it as a replacement for geotextile in paths which improves their stability and prevents erosion, mulching in our orchard which keeps the weeds at bay and provides nutrients, and for nesting birds.
Words and pictures by Saoirse Murphy-Collot
