Whispering Pines Farm

Whispering Pines Farm is a breeder of Shetland sheep in Middleport, NY, Niagara County in western New York near Buffalo. It has raised these hardy sheep for more than a decade with membership in the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy and subjects each flock to regular health screenings.

The animals live in well-ventilated barns and pasture rotational setups, where they receive daily handling to encourage calm temperaments. Ewes and lambs enjoy forage-based diets and frequent brushings to maintain their fine wool fleeces. The farm’s attention to low-stress birthing protocols has earned positive feedback from local fiber artists, who praise the consistent fleece quality and friendly nature of the flock. Rich Johnson and Jennifer Johnson hand-raise newborn lambs during the first weeks to strengthen social bonds. Their approach also emphasizes pasture diversity, which supports sheep health and wool texture year-round. Visitors often note the farm’s relaxed atmosphere and transparent care routines.