Luzein Sheep

The Luzein sheep is a little-known Swiss landrace associated with Luzein and the Prattigau area of Graubunden, in the eastern Alps. It belongs to the broad tradition of small, hardy mountain sheep kept in scattered village flocks rather than to a globally distributed commercial breed. Descriptions of the type are limited, and local animals may show the mixed ancestry typical of Alpine sheep selected for survival on steep pasture, sure feet, seasonal breeding, and usable meat and wool rather than a single show-ring look. The name is most useful when discussing regional Swiss genetic resources, historic village sheep, or conservation-minded small flocks.

Management is usually best understood through Alpine sheep husbandry: summer grazing on rough upland pasture, winter hay, secure fencing, and close attention to feet, body condition, and lambing weather. Anyone seeking Luzein sheep should ask how the flock is identified, whether animals are part of a conservation program, and what traits the breeder is preserving. Small populations need careful ram choice and record keeping to avoid narrowing bloodlines. For farms outside the region, the breed's value is mainly heritage grazing and local adaptation, not high-output wool or milk production.

Colors: Badgerface, Black, Blackbelly, Broken, Brown, Gray, Grey, Gulmoget, Katmoget, Moorit, Piebald, Red, Roan, Silver, Solid, Spotted, Tan, White, White with Black Points, White with Brown Points