Balwen Welsh Mountain  sheep Balwen Welsh Mountain  sheep
Balwen Welsh Mountain  sheep
Balwen Welsh Mountain  sheep
Balwen Welsh Mountain  sheep

Balwen Welsh Mountain

The Welsh Mountain Sheep can be termed as an umbrella description to describe many of the breeds indigenous to Wales. Through breeding and selection over the centuries, the Welsh Mountain has developed into many distinct breeds; the Balwen Welsh Mountain Sheep being one of these. Balwen Welsh Mountain Sheep originate from one small area of Wales: the Tywi Valley. The name Balwen is welsh for white blaze.

The Balwen sheep has a base color of black, brown, or dark grey. It has a white blaze on the face, four distinct white feet, and a half to two-thirds white tail. All males must have horns. Horns are not allowed on females. The Balwen Welsh Mountain Sheep is a small, very hardy breed. They are easy to manage, having very few health problems associated with many of the larger breeds. It is thought farmers over the years used the Balwen as landmarks on the hills as a means of recognizing one's flock.

Breed categories: rare