I spent a week in Teror and needless to say felted some characterful and hairy fleece. Curious as ever I tracked down some sheep and found these in a local park.
There was minimal shade, no grass and no water that I could see - just contented sheep and lambs enjoying the sun and 20C temperature.
Their coats, of varied colours, have adapted to have thermoregulatory properties. Traditionally they exist in flocks with nomadic shepherds. Very understandable when you see the island terrain.
Due to their varied plant diet their milk makes a remarkable well flavoured cheese. It appears this cheese has been ‘rediscovered’ by gourmet chefs and the survival of these sheep and their nomadic way of life may become economically viable.
I do hope so.
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