Teeswaters are an amazing and unique breed of longwool sheep originating in the UK. They are big, bold, and beautiful animals. Here in the US they have been established using an upgrading program and imported semen from the UK. They always carry lustrous white wool with either brown or black points on their faces and legs making a stylish statement in the world of sheep breeds. They can grow up to an inch of high luster wool a month and their long locks are highly sought after by fiber artists the world around. In shorter fleece, they are covered with ringlets and tight curls that are equally appealing. The ATSA, which is the US breed Association that oversees their numbers has instituted the “Fiber of Distinction” program which we support and participate in.
These sheep are considered a rare breed in the UK and are listed on the Rare Breed Trust watch list. Here in the US, they were recently accepted by the Livestock Conservancy as an endangered breed. We have worked to support a viable population of these beautiful animals by importing genetics and maintaining a large flock of high-quality breeding stock.
Shepherds Lane is known for, and by, its glorious flock of Teeswaters and the fiber that is produced here. We are proud to “preserve, protect, and promote” this beautiful and rare breed of sheep and will continue to do as long as we can!