Noire du Velay
The Noire du Velay is a black French sheep breed from the Velay area of the Massif Central, especially around Haute-Loire in south-central France. It is a rustic meat sheep, traditionally associated with volcanic uplands, rough grass, and seasonal outdoor management. The breed is recognizable by its dark fleece, black skin and points, polled head, and compact but muscular build. Lambs are born black, although the fleece can weather to brownish tones with age and sun exposure.
Farmers keep Noire du Velay sheep mainly for lamb production, using their hardiness, fertility, and good mothering in grass-based systems. They can fit upland farms, small commercial flocks, and conservation grazing where a moderately hardy meat ewe is useful. Dark wool has niche craft value, but it is not the main product. Breeding programs in France have worked to maintain numbers and performance, so buyers should look for animals selected for lambing ability, udder quality, feet, and temperament as well as the expected black color.
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
