Today, we would like to talk about a very special sheep breed in Iceland — one that is not
raised for meat and yet has had a considerable impact on sheep farming in the country. We are
speaking of the so-called “Forystufé.”
A leader with a long history
Forystufé are known as the leader sheep. They are recognized as their own line or subgroup
and, since 2017, have been officially recognized as an independent breed. However, their
history stretches back for centuries. These remarkable animals lead the flock, and the other
sheep instinctively follow them. Even in harsh weather, they can guide the herd safely back
home. Because they are considered highly sensitive to weather changes, farmers in the past
relied on their instincts. If the leader sheep refused to leave the barn during winter, it was
taken as a clear sign that bad weather was approaching.
The “perfect” Leadersheep
Leader sheep also possess several distinctive physical traits. They have notably long legs,
allowing them to run faster than the sheep in Iceland that are bred for meat production. They
are usually larger than other sheep and often display striking coat patterns. The “perfect”
leader sheep is said to have white markings on its face, stretching over the muzzle and
forehead, along with white legs and a white beard, while the rest of the body should be a
different color. Of course, there is a wide variety of colors among the leader sheep.
Since the settlement of Iceland, the leader sheep have been an integral part of Icelandic sheep
farming. Within Iceland’s traditional grazing system, they naturally belong there with their
intelligence, endurance, and unique leadership qualities.
Folklore and Breeding
Another reason why this breed is so extraordinary is that its behavioral pattern is unique in the
world and not known to exist anywhere else.
The wool of these sheep is equally distinctive. It is especially light and soft, even lighter
than the wool of sheep bred primarily for meat. Old Icelandic sagas tell that whoever wears
the wool of a leader sheep in the mountains will always find their way home.
Breeding this special sheep breed is challenging due to its small population, estimated at
1,000-2,000 animals in Iceland.
If you would like to learn more about the Forystufé and read old sagas about these remarkable
animals, feel free to visit the following websites:
https://agrogen.is/bufe/islenskt-forystufe/
https://www.forystusetur.is/is