Spiegel

Spiegel, or Spiegelschaf, is a Swiss sheep from the Prättigau and Graubünden region, named for the mirror-like pale face that contrasts with darker markings around the eyes, ears, and muzzle in young animals. It is a medium-sized, long-legged landrace type, usually polled, with wool absent or sparse on the head, belly, and lower legs. Conservation breeding has kept the breed visible after it nearly disappeared in the twentieth century.

Spiegel sheep suit keepers who want a hardy Swiss heritage breed for grass-based lamb, local fiber, and genetic conservation rather than maximum commercial output. Breeding programs pay close attention to facial markings, body soundness, and flock-book identity, because small populations can lose type quickly. The breed's calm character and tough feet are useful, but owners still need ordinary mountain-breed discipline: careful mineral balance, parasite checks, and selection against weak pasterns.

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