Lawrence Cottage Gotland Sheep

Gotland's are from the Gotland Islands, Sweden. They originated from the primitive Gute sheep of Gotland. Vikings likely developed this breed from acquisitions obtained during their voyages. They are a polled breed. They do not require tail docking, due to the primitive origins. The Gotland is a multi-purpose breed, used for meat, wool and pelts. They are a calm/docile breed, prolific and easy lambers. They seek out human interaction. Here in the Northerm hemisphere Gotland's breed in the late fall. Gotland ewes have good mothering instincts. Lambs are known for being up on their feet quickly after birth. Laproscopic artificial insemination (LAI) has made it possible for shepherds in North America to enjoy this breed.

Lawrence Cottage is home to a small flock of sheep, which enables us to devote a great deal of attention to each individual sheep in the flock. Our Gotland's are by far the friendliest of our sheep.

Here at Lawrence Cottage we are selecting for fleece quality, as well as conformation of our sheep. We breed for fleeces with luster and softness. Our genetics come primarily from the UK. There are some wonderful Gotland sheep that were imported from Sweden to the UK before Sweden's market changed. These sheep were of the original Gotland Isle/Swedish stock. Hand spinners love the luster and handle of this fiber. It also fabulous for felting/crafts.

More information on LAI at http://www.toprams.com/

Gotland meat has a sweet, delicate flavor. It is tight grained and tender. Gotland meat is much leaner than many of the popular sheep meat breeds. There is very little fat/talo, hence no strong flavors. Our sheep are primarily grass fed. Market lambs receive no hormones or antibiotics.

We are members of

American Gotland Sheep Society (AGSS)

&

Voluntary Scrapie Flock Identification Program