(317) 698-4056
LITTLE EAGLE CREEK VALLEY FARM
Quality Shetland Sheep & Raw Fleeces
WHAT KIND OF CARE DO SHETLANDS REQUIRE?
Shetlands are a hardy breed and do not require excessive care. They do need to be sheared once a year (we do it in March), wormed twice a year, and kept up to date on vaccinations (we recommend Covexin 8). Just like any other animal, Shetlands also need their hooves clipped- usually once per year. In the winter their fleece will keep them insulated but make sure to provide your flock with a shelter that blocks the wind. For the warmer months, provide shelter from the sun and rain.
​
If you are showing your sheep, washing the fleece is optional. We always wash before shows using Orvis livestock soap and let the animals air dry in the pasture. We do not use brushes or other grooming tools on our fleeces.
​
When the environment allows, Shetlands can survive solely on pasture. In the case of snow or drought, or when grass is otherwise unavailable, we feed hay. Grain and the occasional salt or mineral block is also used to supplement pregnant ewes and growing lambs.
WHAT IS THE LAMBING PROCESS LIKE?
Shetland ewes are typically easy lambers and good mothers who do not need human assistance when giving birth. First time mothers will generally have a single lamb while experienced lambers will more commonly have twins or triplets.
​
On our farm, we separate expecting ewes from the rest of the flock so we can keep an eye on them and supplement their diet. When we notice that a ewe is getting close to delivering, we will put her in a small pen by herself with fresh straw and water. Ewes will normally stop eating the day they lamb, stray away from the flock, and/or appear to have "dropped" - their belly sags creating a concave region on either side of the spine.
​
If a ewe seems to be having trouble or is in labor for more than an hour, it may be necessary to pull the lamb. However, this is relatively uncommon. Once all the lambs are out, it is important to monitor them over the next 24 hours to make sure they are nursing and getting colostrum from the ewe's milk. If a lamb is rejected or you suspect triplets are not getting enough milk, lamb formula can be fed through a bottle.
DO YOU SHEAR YOUR OWN SHEEP? CAN YOU SHEAR MINE?
We hire a professional to shear our sheep, we do not do it ourselves. If you own a few Shetlands and do not want to do the job yourself, you are welcome to bring them to the farm on our shearing day to get them done by our shearer. Sometimes it can be hard to get someone to shear just a few animals so this is a great option for those with only a few sheep. Several online resources exist for people who would like to shear their own animals, but keep in mind that if you are planning to show the fleece or sell it afterwards you will want the shear job to be high quality.
ARE YOUR SHEEP REGISTERED?
Yes. We register the majority of our sheep through NASSA, the North American Shetland Sheepbreeders Association. We are flock #583.
I AM INTERESTED IN BUYING BUT DON'T LIVE IN THE AREA, DO YOU DELIVER SHEEP?
There are a few options for those who are not in central Indiana but still want to purchase from our flock. If you live in Indiana we can meet buyers halfway or in some cases make the full trip for a delivery charge. Since our family attends shows in several states throughout the year, it is also an option to meet us at a show to pick up your animals. We're willing to work with you!
HOW MUCH DO YOUR SHEEP COST?
There are many factors that we consider when pricing our animals. If you're looking to buy show or breeding stock, generally expect to spend more than if you are buying a companion animal or whether. Fiber quality, color, markings, and confirmation will also impact prices. Typically black sheep will cost less than spotted or light colored ones, but this is not always the case. Please contact us for the pricing of a specific sheep.
DO YOU LEASE RAMS/SELL BRED EWES?
Yes, if you are looking to breed your ewes but do not want to purchase a ram, please contact us about leasing a ram for breeding season. We do also sell bred ewes if you want to have lambs without keeping a ram on the property.
HOW DO YOU NAME LAMBS?
Each year our family takes turns choosing a theme for naming new lambs. Some of our favorites have been Greek gods, Indiana counties, Indian tribes, Green Day songs, three letter names, and Star Trek characters! The theme for 2018 is Indiana University names.
CAN I FIND YOUR FARM ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
Yes! For the most up-to-date information and pictures, please like our Facebook page by clicking on the facebook icon at the bottom of this page or by searching for "Little Eagle Creek Valley Farm".
I DON'T HAVE SHEEP EXPERIENCE, ARE SHETLANDS THE RIGHT BREED FOR ME?
Absolutely! Shetlands are perfect for people who are not experienced in farming because they are easy keepers. Their small size and loving nature makes them ideal for families with kids. Shetlands are easy to show and make great 4-H animals for both experienced showers and those just starting out. Ewes and wethers also make great companion animals and lawn-mowers! Shetlands are also a popular breed for spinners, knitters, dyers, felters, and other fiber artists.
​
