Big Bellies Farm

Big Bellies Farm raises American blackbelly sheep in Hagerstown, MD, Washington County and the Cumberland Valley near Chambersburg. Owner Yevgeniy Nikolayev follows breed guidelines established by national sheep associations and performs routine health screenings to monitor parasite resistance and overall flock wellness. Lambs are born on pasture-based yards and receive early handling to support gentle temperaments.

The flock grazes on rotational pastures to promote diverse forage intake and natural hoof care. Each sheep benefits from a family farm setting where shelter, nutrition and social groups mirror natural herd dynamics. After careful selection, adult rams often display the breed’s signature curling horns and rich coat patterns valued by smallholders and hobby farms.

Yevgeniy is active in regional sheep workshops and collaborates with neighboring farms to advance pasture management practices. Feedback from local homesteaders highlights the flock’s friendly nature and adaptability to small-acre settings.