09/12/2026
A lot of folks will tell you that wethers (castrated boys) don't serve much of a purpose except to go into the freezer. . . but I disagree.
In fact, I couldn't disagree MORE.
This handsome fellow is Lyle, an exceptional babysitter and member of our welcoming committee. He never gets upset about anything so when we have new sheep in quarantine, Lyle (or big brother Levon) are often the ones we put in there with the newbies to show them the ropes - "Food is *here*, water is *here*, mineral is *here* and that? O that's Tara. She has fingers - most excellent for back scritches."
Lyle is also gentle enough that weaning lambs can be put with him for a little supervision and some basic Sheep 101 - he can stickhandle the little ones thru this most trying time while still keeping things on a flock-friendly even keel, making reintroduction a breeze. . . No one has had a chance to forget their manners with Lyle on duty.
Finally, when *that time* rolls around every year, Lyle has found himself in the bachelor pen with a moody Banjo who, I think, is happy for the company even if he spends most of his time plotting his revenge.
And finally, for this shepherd anyway, I do love my wethered gentlemen. Levon, Lyle and Luther are a surefire way to bring some lightness to any day or a smile to my face even when I'm so tired I can barely keep my eyes focused. These boys come along quietly, are (relatively) easily halter trained and lift their chins for scratches. They are gentle and endlessly sweet. I don't have to watch my back and they're not nearly as pushy as the ewes. They are a balm to a rumpled spirit, safe around all our guests and beautiful, inside and out.
No, wethers have an important role to play in flocks like mine. It's always worth having a few around. ❤️
