Grazing sheep amongst trees to produce organic fruit and meat
Shropshire sheep have been used in fruit orchards and other types of deciduous plantation successfully in many different countries. Shropshire sheep are useful for meat, wool and are tree friendly meaning they don't readily strip the bark when hungry. They were originally developed by farmers in Shropshire and the West Midlands in the early 19th Century .
Some of the benefits include scab control, removal of grass at the base of trees difficult to mow, soil enrichment and the acquisition of manure as an excellent fertiliser. Importantly they reduce the need to mow grass and therefore enhance the organic nature of fruit production.
The added pleasure of producing lambs although time consuming can be particularly valuable for educating the younger generation. Shropshires in particular are gentle and inquisitive and in my experience trustworthy around children. They are attentive mothers and hardy. It never fails to amaze me how new born lambs find milk and survive the various challenges the orchard environment throws at them. I have met many people who have a passion for these animals and build up strong bonds with their sheep.
My son has developed a real enthusiasm for sheep and enjoys feeding them. He is also quite good at poo picking. Friends and families children visiting the site have always enjoyed feeding the sheep and watching them go about munching and crunching duties. The sheep for me are a key stone species in orchards keeping the grass relatively short and they have a particular fondness for grass growing at the base of trees. Removing plants and grass from the base of newly planted trees is essential for the first 3 to 4 years before the tree gets established.
Disgusting as it may seem to us licking the fluid from the new born lamb which is full of nutrients is an instinctive behavioural response for the ewe. The process of drying the newborn also important as well as bonding. The afterbirth is nearly always consumed by the mother also. I have speculated that this removes traces of blood and animal tissue and could be explained in context of evolution. Predators would be attracted to the smells and traces left by the birth potentially putting the lamb at risk.
Creating zones for winter grazing reduces the risk of parasite infestations and foot issues. It also ensures the grass is manageable and the provides healthy fodder. I have found that despite my best efforts keeping sheep feet healthy is an ongoing challenge requiring regular checks and intervention.
