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Minchinton Nice with her lambs

ANIMAL lovers are getting excited after the news of four fluffy new arrivals of a rare breed of sheep at Abbey View Alpaca's in Malmesbury.

Two sets of twins of Soay Sheep were born last week and they make up a population of just 2000 nationwide.

Soay sheep are usually found in Scotland and are classed as a vulnerable breed by the Rare Breed Survival trust.

They originally existed on a tiny island west of Scotland and are often confused with goats because of their horns.

The first proud parent Minchinton Nice, gave birth last Saturday April 5 and Rumawell Foan followed with a delivery on Thursday.

The four lambs, which haven't been named yet, will stay with their mums for eight-12 weeks and then they are most likely to be sold off as pets.

Owner of Abbey View Alpacas Debby Neal said; "I don't really like to sell mine off to be eaten but some people do.

"They are very good as lawn mowers. They are natural grazers.

Soay sheep are a rare breed originating from Scotland.

"Although they are small sheep people do confuse them with goats. To me they don't look like goats but I can see why they are confused.

"They are quite a flighty bunch and they are very sweet.

"Soay sheep are very inquisitive, intelligent, and can be lots of fun to watch, but they can be quite territorial.

"We have had some before and someone came from as far as Macclesfield to get one and take it back.

"Some of ours are also grazing around Corfe Castle now."

The sheep are sold off for between £50 and £70 and can be kept as pets.

For information contact Abbey View Alpacas on (01666) 823124.

1:41pm Wednesday 16th April 2008

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