The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Tina Turkey on November 08, 2012, 07:35:42 pm

Title: Why do sheep frolick at dusk?
Post by: Tina Turkey on November 08, 2012, 07:35:42 pm

Hi, I have always noticed that young lambs start to frolick as the evening starts to arrive ... we have always called it their "silly half an hour" .... tonight for the first time ever I saw the ewes doing the same ... the ewes that have lambs from February still with them .... it was such a lovely sight and made me wonder what triggers them to do this at this particular time of the day?
Anyone know?
TT

Title: Re: Why do sheep frolick at dusk?
Post by: jaykay on November 08, 2012, 07:40:44 pm

I think it's the equivalent of not taking to the dance floor til the lights go down - they're shy  :D

Seriously, the day's eating is done but it's not dark enough yet to be unsafe to be jumping about - time for some games  ;D

Title: Re: Why do sheep frolick at dusk?
Post by: katie on November 08, 2012, 09:18:17 pm

It's lovely to see , isn't it? Particularly the respectable older matrons who suddenly kick their heels up and cavort about. Goats do it too.

Title: Re: Why do sheep frolick at dusk?
Post by: SallyintNorth on November 08, 2012, 11:56:50 pm

Hrmph.  I don't think Texels, Charollais or North Country Mules seem to do this. They dance when their cake is a-coming...  ::)

Title: Re: Why do sheep frolick at dusk?
Post by: colliewoman on November 09, 2012, 12:08:15 am

Aw the tea time races :love: :love: :love:
Possibly the very best bit of sheep keeping :love: :love: :love: