In the middle of the recent cold snap, when the mountains of Franschhoek were covered with snow, twin lambs were born at Solms-Delta farm.Earlier this year a small herd of fat-tailed sheep was introduced to the estate. These animals, first herded by nomadic Khoe farmers, are part of the cultural heritage holdings that are being built up on the estate. Other aspects of the heritage programme are the stately herd of Sanga cattle, the Dik Delta Fynbos culinary gardens, and, of course, the Museum van de Caab.
Willie Claassen, who is in charge of animal husbandry, was delighted at the survival of “Cappuccino” and “Coffee” the lambs, even though one went through a rather fragile state. Unlike their European cousins who normally arrive in spring and gambol happily in the sun, luckily these indigenous animals come from the Koue Bokkeveld and are pretty used to cold weather, otherwise they might have ended up as deep-frozen mutton.
Willie explains that it is well-nigh impossible to catch these sheep when they need to be examined by a vet. “They can jump this high,” he said, pointing to his shoulder. He also says that they are more goat than sheep, because they like to head butt each other, like mountain goats,
The beautiful markings of the sheep (as well as the graceful horns of the cattle) are attracting the attention of more and more visitors the farm. Have a look yourself, you will find them at the end of the row of bluegum trees, just to the right of the Fynbos garden as you enter the estate.
John van Zyl
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