Welcome to Ouessant Sheep Conservation Society UK
Dedicated to the conservation of rare Ouessant Sheep breed in the UK. Join us in safeguarding this unique heritage.
Heritage Preservation
We are dedicated to conserving the genetic lineage of Ouessant Sheep, ensuring the continuation of this rare breed for future generations.
Breed Sustainability
By implementing sustainable breeding practices, we aim to maintain the population and health of Ouessant Sheep in the UK.
Community Engagement
Engage with fellow conservation enthusiasts and contribute to the conservation efforts of Ouessant Sheep through our community initiatives.
Who Are We?
Ouessant Sheep Registry
- Full breeding flockbook managed inhouse and continually monitored and updated. Full access by Members for kinship and research.
- 24/7 support from experienced breeders from the selection of stock through lambing and beyond
- Practical training in good breed practice
- Everything you will need to breed these wonderful little sheep in a professional environment
What is our Mission?
Education and Support
We are a 'not for profit' organisation which exists for the benefit of its members. We wish to bring to you a clear, concise and functional society that concentrates on the breeding of this rare breed sheep. We will concentrate all resources on providing a professional environment and service to ensure that breeders have all the tools and support necessary to be able to breed these beautiful little sheep to best practice and to the European breed standard. Members will have access to officers at all time and will receive prompt and researched answers to queries. We will evolve to meet the needs of our members as a whole but will stay true to best practice breeding fundamental behaviours.
The Ouessant Sheep
Ouessant sheep are believed to be the smallest naturally occuring sheep in the world. A ram standing not more than 49cm and a ewe 46cm. They originated off the coast of Brittany on the Island of Ouessant where they were bred pretty much exclusively on the Island by the inhabitants for meat and wool with early recording of the breed in the 18th century. Much research has been done and papers published as to the fundamental heritage colouring of this native sheep but the breed standard currently calls for black, brown or white, with black commonly regarded as 'traditional'. The Ouessant breed is designated in the UK as a French rare breed sheep and are considered to be a low maintenance breed with few health concerns. Their wool is of primitive type being double coated with a dense undercoat and longer outer fleece.
About the Ouessant Sheep Conservation Society UK
Safeguarding Rare Ouessant Sheep Breed
At Ouessant Sheep Conservation Society UK, our mission is to protect and promote the conservation of the Ouessant Sheep breed. The society is committed to preserving the genetic diversity and heritage of these unique sheep through responsible breeding practices.<br/>Join us in our journey to ensure the sustainability of this precious breed.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Ram Selection
Flockbook and kinship reports
Biodiversity
Community awareness
Welfare and Good Breeding
Awareness Campaigns