THE WILTSHIRE HORN SHEEP SOCIETY LIMITED

ABOUT THE WILTSHIRE HORN SHEEP SOCIETY LIMITED

About the Wiltshire Horn Sheep Society

The Wiltshire Horn is a very old native breed and up until the end of the eighteenth century was the predominant breed to be found on the Wiltshire Downs. At this time the sheep were able to roam freely doing well on the poor terrain which offered little shade or protection. It is this background that has given the breed it’s hardiness and resilience.

The breed fell out of favour during the nineteenth century when the economy became reliant on wool.  The breed was saved from extinction by a small group of enthusiastic breeders who formed the Wiltshire Horn Sheep Society in 1923.  In the 1970's the breed came under the protection of the RBST because numbers were so low.  In recent years the number of registered sheep has significantly increased and so the breed has developed into the large commercial flock it is today.

The growth in popularity of the breed is primarily due to it’s ability to shed it’s fleece. The Wiltshire Horn has a short fleece that naturally sheds in the spring leaving a short hair coat. The fleece will then grow again in the autumn to offer protection during the winter months. In an industry where wool production has become uneconomic the advantages of self shedding sheep are clear to see. The labour costs associated with wool are drastically reduced with no need to gather sheep for shearing, dagging or dipping. 

Welcome to the official website of the Wiltshire Horn Sheep Society Ltd (WHSS).

The Wiltshire Horn Sheep Society Ltd. maintains, develops and promotes the UK's rapidly expanding pedigree Wiltshire Horn Flock on behalf of the Society Membership.

Company Secretary and Registered Company address:

Wiltshire Horn Sheep Society Ltd is registered in England and Wales. Company number 06717103 and registration address Crouchley Hall Farm, Crouchley Lane, Lymm, Cheshire, WA13 0AT