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Helsinge sheep belong to the group of sheep in Sweden called the Allmoge sheep.

The breed originates from two different groups of sheep from the same area that share similar characteristics, appearance and from the same geographical area. They are known to be nice and affectionate towards their owners, but can be wary against strangers. Pasture grazing is prioritized over grass grazing and the sheep are therefore excellent landscape stewards on clear-cuts and forest pastures.

Helsinge sheep

Name: Helsinge sheep.
Native name: Helsingefår.
Weight: 40-60 kg (ewes) and 50-70 kg (rams).
Wither height: Ewes are 58-80 cm, while rams are a little taller. 
Appearance: Black, grey, brown or white. White spotty, panda or badger-patterns. Some animals have patterns under the chin.
Type: Short-tailed.
Wool: Predominantly rya and wadmal wool. Fine wool is also present. 
Horns: Ewes are polled, rams can be polled or horned. 
Number of offspring: Depends on the age of the ewe, 1-2 lambs is most common, but three is not unusual.
Number of breeding females in Sweden (2022): 1 884.

Not at Risk – Vulnerable – Endangered – Critically Endangered – Extinct

Multicoloured sheep lying on grass.
Helsinge sheep. Photo: Wiktoria Lindqvist.