grazes the productive hill margins well

Size
Height: 70–80 cm, Weight: 65–85 kg
Lifespan
12–15 years
Diet
Herbivorous grazer; known for being a "sweet-toothed" browser that will utilize clover and herbs as much as grass.
Habitat
Hill country and upland pastures; they are the specialists of the productive margins.
Range
Found in both the North and South Islands, often favored by farmers in higher-rainfall hill regions.
Endemism
Introduced
Main Threats
Absorption into larger commercial cross-breeding programs which can obscure their distinct breed traits.
Population
A hardy, multi-purpose breed in New Zealand, recognized for its longevity and striking dark face and ears.
Conservation Status
Introduced
Human Risk
caution
Handling Note
farm sheep, can kick and butt rams are unpredictable during rut
Conservation Note
Introduced domestic livestock breed; not subject to conservation assessment.
Te Ao Māori
The Clun Forest sheep is respected by Māori farmers for its independence. It has "mana" as a survivor. In the Māori world, the Clun is often seen as a reliable provider. Its ability to mother lambs in the cold spring rains reflects the values of protection and family strength. Their longevity is particularly valued. A single ewe can become a "matriarch" of the flock. This symbolizes the continuity of life and the importance of elder wisdom within the collective of the land.
Possessing a silhouette of alert, high-headed grace and a face of deep chocolate brown, the Clun Forest is the "upland specialist" of the New Zealand sheep world. These animals are a biological masterpiece of the Shropshire hills. They are defined by a lithe, athletic blueprint. They have a reputation for being one of the most long-lived and fertile breeds available. In the New Zealand context, they are the "resilient residents". They possess a genetic depth that allows ewes to remain productive well into their tenth year. They are the versatile residents of the rolling hill country. They move with a quick, purposeful power. It radiates a sense of absolute physical competence and quiet dignity. Success for the Clun in the local landscape is driven by their extraordinary maternal ability. Their metabolism supports high-protein milk production. They are the "nurturing experts". They possess a biological drive to protect and raise multiple lambs in challenging weather. This physical grit is paired with a temperament that is famously alert and inquisitive. A Clun Forest sheep is a master of its environment. It is always the first to investigate a new gate or a shift in the wind. They move with a rhythmic, light-footed power. The species prioritises agility and longevity over the rapid, one-dimensional growth of terminal meat breeds. Biological resilience in this breed is found in their high resistance to foot-rot. Their dense, cream-colored wool sheds rain effectively. They represent the spectacular potential of a traditional forest breed to adapt to the maritime climate of New Zealand. Their dark faces and upright, "listening" ears provide a unique visual marker in the landscape. Their refined frames are built for navigating steep slopes. They move through the high-country tussock as living proof of the adaptability of the Bovidae family. They remain the alert, dark-faced residents of the upland range. A species of spectacular character and quiet dignity.