Cotswold Sheep
Breed Description

The Cotswold sheep derives its name from the Cotswold Hills region in south-central England, where the breed developed over centuries becoming central to the region's medieval wool trade prosperity. The term "Cotswold" itself comes from "cot" meaning sheep enclosure and "wold" meaning rolling hills, creating a place name meaning "sheep hills" that became synonymous with the distinctive longwool sheep grazing those landscapes. This geographic designation immediately identifies the breed's English origins and connection to one of history's most important wool-producing regions.

Historically, Cotswold sheep were known by various regional names reflecting their economic importance and widespread recognition. Terms including "Cotswold Lion" referenced the breed's impressive size and majestic appearance with abundant curly fleece resembling a lion's mane. "Cotswold Long Wool" or simply "Cotswold Longwool" emphasized the breed's most distinctive characteristic, distinguishing it from shortwool breeds. Medieval wool merchants knew Cotswold wool as "Cotswold wool," a designation that commanded premium prices in European markets where English longwool was highly prized for its quality and processing characteristics.

The breed played such a significant role in English wool history that Cotswold wool and sheep were referenced in medieval economic records, guild regulations, and trade documents spanning centuries. The phrase "riding on sheep's back" describing England's medieval economic prosperity referred partly to Cotswold and similar longwool breeds whose wool generated substantial wealth. This economic importance meant Cotswolds were carefully guarded, with export restrictions at various periods protecting England's wool trade advantages. When eventually exported, Cotswolds established flocks in many countries though always retaining the Cotswold designation honoring their English origins.

Within fiber and heritage livestock communities, Cotswolds are often simply called "Cotswolds" with the understanding that this indicates a specific heritage breed with distinctive characteristics. Hand spinners and fiber artists particularly value the breed, with "Cotswold fleece" or "Cotswold locks" indicating premium longwool fiber with specific processing characteristics. The Livestock Conservancy lists Cotswold sheep as a heritage breed of conservation priority, recognizing their historical importance and relatively small contemporary populations compared to commercial breeds. Conservation-focused breeders sometimes emphasize "traditional Cotswolds" or "heritage Cotswolds" to distinguish animals maintained according to historical breed standards from those showing influence from modern commercial breeding.

Cotswold sheep display large, impressive size befitting their longwool heritage, with ewes typically weighing 150 to 200 pounds and rams ranging from 200 to 300 pounds. This substantial frame provides both adequate body capacity for their voluminous fleece and sufficient size for meat production, creating dual-purpose sheep that were historically valued for both products. Body conformation shows good depth, width, and balance with well-sprung ribs, level toplines, and moderate muscling. The overall impression is of a large, substantial sheep carrying a remarkable fleece that dramatically increases apparent size.

The Cotswold fleece represents the breed's most distinctive and valuable characteristic, consisting of long, lustrous fiber growing in wavy ringlets or locks hanging dramatically from the body. Fiber diameter typically measures 30 to 40 microns, placing it in the longwool category that is coarser than fine wools but prized for its luster, drape, and processing characteristics. Staple length is exceptional, reaching 7 to 12 inches annually depending on management and individual variation, among the longest of any sheep breed. These long locks hang in distinct ringlets showing pronounced waves or curls, creating the dramatic appearance that makes Cotswolds immediately recognizable.

Fleece characteristics include exceptional luster or shine, a defining quality of English longwools that creates fiber catching and reflecting light beautifully. The wool shows good strength and elasticity despite its coarseness, processing well for various textile applications including outerwear, upholstery, rugs, and unique art yarns. Annual fleece weights typically range from 10 to 15 pounds depending on sex, age, and management, with the combination of length, luster, and substantial weight creating valuable wool clips. Fleece color is white in standard Cotswolds, though natural colored populations exist for specialty fiber markets. The dramatic length and curl of the fleece create sheep that look substantially larger before shearing than their actual body size would suggest.

Facial features show refinement beneath the characteristic forelock, a tuft of wool falling over the forehead between the eyes that is distinctive to Cotswolds and closely related breeds. The profile is typically straight or slightly Roman, with alert, bright eyes often partially obscured by the forelock. Ears are medium-sized and carried horizontally or slightly drooping. Cotswolds may be horned or polled (naturally hornless), with both types acceptable though polled animals are increasingly common for safety and ease of management. The breed's white face shows good pigmentation around the nose and eyes, with bare facial skin often showing some freckling.

Legs display substantial bone and strong structure supporting the breed's large frame and heavy fleece. Wool coverage on legs varies, with some animals showing heavy leg wool while others have cleaner legs, both acceptable within breed standards. Hooves are well-formed and typically dark or mottled in color. Udders in ewes are well-developed and adequately sized for raising lambs, typically twins which are common in Cotswolds' high-fertility breed. The overall appearance suggests a large, impressive sheep with distinctive longwool characteristics, combining historical significance with practical utility. The breed's lack of excessive wrinkling, strong frame, and remarkable fleece create sheep that are both productive for fiber and meat while maintaining the distinctive appearance that has made Cotswolds recognizable for centuries.

Cotswold sheep are universally recognized as among the most docile and gentle of all sheep breeds, displaying exceptionally calm temperaments that make them ideal for family farms, educational programs, petting operations, and novice shepherds. This remarkable tractability likely results from centuries of close management in the relatively intensive pastoral systems of England, where nervous or difficult animals were consistently selected against in favor of cooperative individuals easy to work with in enclosed fields. Ewes accept handling including shearing, hoof trimming, and health procedures with minimal resistance, often standing calmly throughout procedures that would stress more nervous breeds.

Flock behavior demonstrates typical ovine social structure but with less extreme flocking intensity than range breeds selected for survival in harsh conditions. Cotswolds maintain reasonable proximity to flock mates while showing more independence than extremely flighty breeds, making them pleasant to work with in various situations. Social hierarchies are maintained through subtle interactions rather than aggressive confrontation, with serious fighting uncommon even during resource competition. The breed's calm nature means stress levels remain low during routine procedures, improving animal welfare and making management more pleasant for shepherds.

Maternal behavior in Cotswold ewes is strong and reliable, with mothers bonding quickly to lambs and demonstrating attentive care. Ewes typically deliver singles or twins, with most managing both twin lambs successfully without difficulty. Milk production is adequate for raising multiples, rarely requiring supplemental feeding in healthy ewes under good management. Lambs are vigorous at birth in normal deliveries, standing and nursing within an hour, with their size and vigor contributing to good survival rates. The combination of strong maternal instincts, adequate milk, and vigorous lambs makes Cotswold lambing relatively straightforward, though monitoring remains valuable for detecting and assisting with any complications.

Ram behavior during breeding season remains remarkably manageable compared to many breeds, with Cotswold rams showing increased interest in ewes but rarely becoming dangerously aggressive toward handlers. Their substantial size demands respectful handling and appropriate facilities, though their temperament makes them safer to work with than many breeds of similar size. Polled rams eliminate horn-related dangers, improving safety further. Multiple rams can coexist in bachelor groups outside breeding season with minimal conflict when properly managed. Even during rut, well-socialized Cotswold rams typically respond to handlers with appropriate respect, making them suitable for operations where rams must be worked regularly.

Cotswold intelligence and trainability are typical of sheep species, with animals learning quickly and remembering routines, facility layouts, and handler expectations. They respond positively to calm, patient handling, becoming increasingly cooperative with consistent, gentle treatment. Training for specific tasks including leading on halters, entering handling facilities, or accepting routine procedures proves effective using reward-based methods. Their gentle nature means they often seek human interaction, particularly animals raised with regular human contact from young ages. This combination of docility, intelligence, and generally pleasant disposition creates sheep that are both productive and enjoyable to manage, making Cotswolds popular among shepherds valuing temperament alongside production characteristics. Their calm behavior extends to interactions with other livestock, children, and visitors, making them suitable for agritourism operations, educational farms, and situations where livestock temperament is as important as production.

Cotswold housing requirements emphasize protection from extreme weather while maintaining fleece quality through clean, dry conditions. Shelters providing 12 to 16 square feet per sheep protect from rain, wind, and temperature extremes while ensuring good ventilation preventing respiratory disease. Their heavy fleece provides excellent insulation when dry but loses effectiveness when saturated, making weather protection important particularly during wet periods. Clean, dry bedding including straw or wood shavings keeps sheep comfortable while preventing fleece contamination that reduces wool value. The breed's large size and voluminous fleece demand adequate shelter space preventing overcrowding that mats and soils fleece.

Fencing must contain these large sheep while protecting valuable fleece from damage. Woven wire fencing 4 to 5 feet high effectively contains most Cotswolds, with their generally calm nature meaning they're less likely to challenge fences than nervous breeds. Smooth wire electric fencing works well as perimeter protection or in rotational systems. Avoid barbed wire as it damages fleece and can injure animals. Clean fence lines free from brush and brambles prevent longwool contamination and snagging. Gates and working facilities should have smooth surfaces without rough edges or projections catching fiber.

Predator protection is essential as Cotswolds' docile nature and valuable fleece make them attractive targets. Secure nighttime housing or presence of livestock guardian dogs significantly reduces predation risk. Their longwool fleece can entangle during panic, making them potentially more vulnerable than short-wooled breeds if attacked. Lambs are particularly vulnerable during first weeks, requiring protected lambing areas or intensive guardian supervision. Fencing preventing predator entry combined with active predator management creates secure environments for these valuable heritage sheep.

Pasture management should provide quarter to half acre per animal on quality grassland with rotational grazing optimizing forage utilization while maintaining clean conditions critical for longwool breeds. Cotswolds perform well on good grass without requiring extensive browse, preferring clean pastoral conditions over brushy areas that contaminate fleece. Rotational systems allow forage recovery while breaking parasite lifecycles. Clean water must be constantly available, with automatic waterers or regularly cleaned tanks. Shade structures provide relief during warm weather, important for heavily fleeced sheep susceptible to heat stress.

Specialized infrastructure for longwool operations includes shearing facilities with clean floors, adequate lighting, and space for careful fleece handling. Cotswold fleeces require gentle handling during shearing to maintain lock structure valued by hand spinners. Wool tables for skirting and careful fleece presentation improve value in specialty fiber markets. Clean, dry storage areas protected from moisture, pests, and contamination preserve fiber quality until sale. Many Cotswold producers sell fleeces directly to hand spinners and fiber artists rather than commodity wool markets, requiring storage and presentation meeting specialty market standards.

Handling facilities including catch pens, races (alleyways), and working areas enable efficient sheep management. Cotswolds' docile nature makes facility design less critical than for flighty breeds, though proper handling systems still improve efficiency. The breed's large size demands sturdy construction. Lambing areas should be clean, dry, and separate from main flock housing, providing ewes with quiet spaces for bonding. Individual lambing pens facilitate bonding when needed, though many Cotswold ewes lamb successfully in group settings. Regular fleece maintenance including crutching (removing soiled wool from rear) between main shearings prevents contamination and fly strike, requiring appropriate facilities and equipment for these periodic procedures.

Cotswold sheep require quality nutrition supporting their large body size, continuous longwool growth, and reproduction, with dietary needs moderate relative to productivity. Their efficient grazing on quality pasture creates sheep that thrive in well-managed pastoral systems without requiring intensive supplementation. However, their substantial size and wool production create nutritional demands exceeding smaller or less productive breeds, making adequate feed essential for optimal health and fiber quality.

Quality forage provides the dietary foundation with access to productive grass pasture during growing season and good hay year-round. Mixed grass-legume hay offers excellent nutrition, though pure grass hay supplemented with protein during key periods supports adequate wool production and lamb growth. Cotswolds consume 3 to 4 pounds of hay daily when pasture is unavailable, with consumption varying by size, production status, and environmental conditions. Free-choice hay access during winter or when pasture declines maintains body condition and supports continuous fiber growth. Their large size means substantial forage consumption compared to smaller breeds, requiring adequate hay storage for year-round feeding.

Grain supplementation depends on production stage and forage quality. Ewes in late pregnancy require grain preventing pregnancy toxemia, particularly those carrying twins which are common in Cotswolds. Supplementation typically ranges from half pound to one pound daily during late gestation, supporting fetal development and preparing for lactation. Lactating ewes benefit from continued grain supporting milk production for twins, with feeding rates adjusted based on body condition and forage availability. Growing lambs may receive grain accelerating growth, particularly if being prepared for sale or show. Mature, non-producing animals on good pasture often require minimal grain, maintaining condition on forage alone during non-production periods.

Mineral supplementation is essential for Cotswold health, wool quality, and reproduction. Free-choice sheep-specific loose minerals or blocks should be constantly available, providing trace minerals including zinc (essential for wool quality), selenium, and iodine. Sheep-specific minerals contain appropriate copper levels for sheep, as excess copper causes toxicity. Selenium supplementation is particularly important in deficient regions, protecting against white muscle disease in lambs and supporting reproduction. Zinc affects fiber characteristics and immune function, making adequate supplementation particularly important for wool breeds. Salt should be provided free-choice ensuring adequate sodium intake.

Water access is critical for health and fiber production, with Cotswolds consuming one to two gallons daily depending on temperature, diet moisture content, and production status. Their large size and heavy fleece create substantial water needs, particularly during summer heat when heavily fleeced sheep may drink significantly more maintaining body temperature regulation. Clean, fresh water must be constantly available as inadequate hydration reduces feed intake, wool growth, and overall health. Water quality affects consumption, with sheep refusing stale or contaminated water. Winter water management preventing freezing ensures adequate intake critical for fiber production continuing year-round. Lactating ewes have dramatically increased water needs, sometimes doubling consumption compared to dry animals, requiring vigilant monitoring and adequate provision.

Cotswold sheep are generally healthy when provided appropriate management, benefiting from centuries of breeding in managed English conditions that selected for animals thriving under good care. However, their longwool fleece creates unique management challenges including increased susceptibility to fly strike in wet wool and contamination issues affecting fiber value. Their large size and typically good body condition provide resilience against some health challenges, though they face issues common to all sheep including parasites, foot problems, and pregnancy-related disorders. Regular preventive care, attentive fleece management, and prompt attention to illness maintain productive, healthy flocks.

Cotswold sheep reward attentive management with premium fiber, good lamb crops, and gentle companionship as heritage animals connecting modern shepherds to centuries of agricultural history. Maintaining detailed flock records including health events, fleece characteristics, pedigrees, and production data supports both individual flock management and breed conservation efforts. The investment in quality pasture management, appropriate nutrition, vigilant fleece care, and preventive health management pays dividends in fiber quality, animal welfare, and satisfaction of preserving rare heritage genetics for future generations.

Handling Cotswold sheep benefits tremendously from their exceptionally docile temperament, with gentle, calm techniques accomplishing necessary procedures with minimal stress. Their tractable nature makes routine handling straightforward even for less experienced shepherds, though proper technique remains important for efficiency and maintaining fleece quality. Working facilities including catch pens and races (alleyways) allow efficient movement, though Cotswolds' cooperativeness means elaborate facilities are less critical than for flighty breeds. Training animals through regular, gentle interaction creates adults that stand calmly during procedures.

Shearing represents the most critical annual management task, requiring careful handling to maintain the lock structure and fiber integrity valued in Cotswold fleeces. Many Cotswold producers prefer hand shearing or careful machine shearing by experienced operators familiar with longwool breeds, as rough handling can damage the distinctive ringlets reducing fleece value. Shearing typically occurs in spring after cold weather passes, with timing critical as carrying full fleece during warm weather causes heat stress. Some producers shear twice annually though annual shearing is more common. Clean conditions for several days before shearing reduce contamination, improving fleece presentation for specialty fiber markets.

Crutching, the practice of removing wool from around the rear, tail, and belly, is critical preventive care for Cotswolds. Performing this procedure between main shearings prevents soiling of long wool by eliminations and reduces fly strike risk dramatically during warm weather. Many producers crutch in fall and again before lambing, with additional mid-summer crutching in fly-prone regions. Face trimming keeps forelock and facial wool from obscuring vision, typically performed once or twice annually as needed. These maintenance procedures are essential for animal welfare and fleece quality in longwool breeds.

Hoof care requires regular attention every 6 to 8 weeks maintaining proper foot angle and preventing overgrowth. Use sharp hoof shears removing excess growth while preserving correct foot shape. Check for foot rot or scald signs during each session, treating infections promptly with foot baths and appropriate medications. Cotswolds' English heritage typically provides good foot health compared to some breeds, though maintaining dry conditions and regular trimming remain essential preventive care.

Parasite management emphasizes monitoring and selective treatment rather than routine whole-flock deworming. FAMACHA scoring identifies anemic individuals requiring treatment, with fecal egg counts providing additional information about parasite burdens. Cotswolds' heavy fleece can mask body condition loss from parasitism, making regular hands-on assessment important. Rotational grazing breaks parasite lifecycles while maintaining pasture quality. External parasite monitoring, particularly during fly season, enables prompt treatment preventing fly strike.

Daily observation enables early problem detection. Healthy Cotswolds are alert, grazing actively, and moving without lameness. Changes including isolation, decreased grazing, or obvious distress warrant examination. Body condition scoring requires hands-on assessment as heavy fleece obscures visual evaluation. Regular fleece condition checks particularly around rear and belly identify contamination or matting requiring attention before it becomes serious.

Lambing management for Cotswolds typically requires moderate supervision as most ewes deliver and mother successfully. Monitoring allows prompt assistance if complications develop, though Cotswold maternal behavior and lamb vigor mean most births proceed normally. Clean, dry lambing areas separate from main flock reduce disease transmission while providing quiet bonding space. Check newborn lambs ensuring they're nursing and receiving colostrum within first hours. Individual pens (jugs) facilitate bonding when needed, though many ewes lamb successfully in group settings.

Cotswold sheep suit heritage farms, fiber operations, and conservation-minded shepherds valuing rare breed preservation combined with quality longwool production. Their exceptional fiber qualities make them highly sought after by hand spinners and fiber artists, with Cotswold fleeces commanding premium prices in specialty markets where lock structure and luster are valued. Direct marketing to fiber enthusiasts creates excellent income potential for small flocks, making Cotswolds economically viable despite small-scale production. However, their heritage status and special characteristics require dedicated management aligning with breed needs.

The breed's dual-purpose nature suits diversified operations seeking both fiber and meat income. Lamb growth provides adequate meat production though not matching specialized terminal sires, creating sheep where ewes produce valuable fleece while raising market lambs. This balance suits farms prioritizing sustainability and multiple income streams over maximum production in single traits. Conservation breeding also motivates many Cotswold keepers, with satisfaction of preserving rare heritage genetics complementing economic returns from fiber and lambs.

Space requirements are moderate with Cotswolds thriving on small to medium-sized farms offering quality pasture. Properties with 5 to 15 acres can support breeding flocks when managed with rotational grazing. They adapt to various farm sizes when provided clean conditions maintaining fleece value. However, they're less suited to extensive range operations than hardy range breeds, performing best in managed pastoral systems where fleece can be protected and sheep receive appropriate care.

Climate considerations favor temperate regions with moderate temperatures and adequate moisture, similar to English conditions where the breed developed. Pacific Northwest, upper Midwest, and northeastern United States provide suitable climates. Cotswolds struggle in extremely hot, humid climates or intense sun exposure that causes heat stress in heavily fleeced sheep. Very dry climates challenge their pastoral adaptation, though adequate irrigation supporting pasture growth can compensate. Cold climates with proper shelter suit them well given their heavy fleece insulation.

Zoning regulations affect all livestock operations, with Cotswolds suitable for areas permitting sheep. Rural agricultural zoning typically accommodates heritage breed operations. Their docile nature and relatively quiet behavior make them acceptable in some suburban agricultural settings where permitted. Shearing activity and periodic intensive work may concern very close neighbors. Securing necessary permits before acquiring livestock prevents complications.

Financial considerations include higher acquisition costs for registered heritage animals compared to commercial sheep, reflecting their rarity and specialty fiber value. Infrastructure costs include fencing, shelter, handling facilities, and shearing equipment or professional shearing expenses appropriate for longwool breeds. Operating expenses include quality hay, minerals, veterinary care, and routine supplies. However, premium fiber prices in direct marketing offset costs better than commodity wool markets. Building fiber community connections and marketing skills requires time but improves returns.

Prospective Cotswold keepers should assess whether their goals, facilities, climate, and dedication align with heritage breed requirements. Successful Cotswold production rewards dedication to proper management with valuable fiber, conservation satisfaction, and pleasant livestock interactions. The breed suits those prioritizing fiber quality, heritage preservation, and gentle temperament over maximum production or minimal maintenance. Fiber enthusiasts, heritage farmers, educational operations, and families seeking gentle sheep for hands-on experiences find Cotswolds excellent choices. Those seeking maximum meat production or extremely low-maintenance sheep should consider alternative breeds. However, shepherds valuing quality over quantity, history over modernity, and gentle temperament alongside productivity find Cotswolds rewarding heritage livestock combining practical utility with connection to agricultural history spanning centuries.