Rough Fell

Rough Fell sheep are large, horned hill sheep from the high, wet country of Cumbria, the Yorkshire Dales, and nearby parts of northern England. They have a white body fleece, black-and-white face markings, and a tough frame suited to ranging over open fells. The breed has long been associated with hefted flocks, where sheep learn and pass on the grazing area of a particular common or hill pasture.

These sheep are managed for hardiness, mothering ability, and lambs that can be sold as stores or finished after leaving the hill. Ewes often spend much of the year on rough grazing. Gathering points are used for tupping and scanning, then again for clipping, weaning, and health work. The fleece is strong and coarse, useful more for carpets and durable products than fine garments. Horns require sensible handling facilities, and shepherds value sound feet, weather resistance, and lamb survival over showy growth in sheltered conditions.

Colors: Badgerface, Black, Blackbelly, Brown, Gray, Gulmoget, Katmoget, Moorit, Piebald, Red, Silver, Spotted, Tan, White, White with Black Points, White with Black Spots on Face and Legs, White with Brown Points