For the last several years, I have visited countries with a lot of sheep. I always say that sheep live in the prettiest parts of the world. The Highlands was no exception. There were sheep everywhere. According to agricultural statistics, there are more than 6.5 million sheep in Scotland. That includes ewes and lambs. There are more sheep than people -- always a good thing. But since I was on a group tour, I wasn't able to get many good pictures of sheep. I had to take pictures when I had the chance. I also didn't use my digital SLR much. Cell phone cameras still aren't great at zooming.
Blackface sheep
Scottish Blackface at Fairy Glen Texels grazing near Duart Castle
Sheep in Scotland have an interesting history. While they arrived in Scotland during the Neolithic period (4100 to 2500 BC), cattle were more important to the culture and economy, especially in the Highlands. It wasn't until the Highland Clearances that sheep became more prevalent, led by the introduction of new breeds: Cheviot and Scottish Blackface. Farmers were forcibly removed from the Highlands and islands. Sheep took their place. I remember a cashier telling me that Highlanders don't like sheep. I get it.
North Ronaldsay: seaweed-eating sheep
