Frequently Asked Questions

 Proof that my flock are quality sheep, as judged by experts, and to make sure I am on the right track with my breeding program,  

We have won

HHF Little Bo Peep Grand Champion Breed up Ewe 2024 and First Place F4 breed up EWE

HHF Lieutenant General LG First Place Ram Lamb 2024 and First Place Ram 2025  Graded -2

HHF LA TE DA F4 Reserve Champion wether 2024 and First Place lamb class 2024

HHF Lee Lee domestic purebred F5 First Place ewe 2024, and Second place 2025 Graded -2

HHF Marcia Marcia Marcia F6 ( the first F6 in the USA) first place ewe 2025 Graded -2

HHF Massey Ferguson Fifth Place Ram lamb 2025 ( had a horn injury) Graded -2

• As of early 2025, the total number of purebred Valais Blacknose sheep in the USA was approximately 500, with over 3,000 more in the "breed up" program.
• It is estimated that only about 4% of Valais Blacknose sheep will ever achieve the maximum points score.

SHOWING The sheep are being compared against each other in the show ring on that particular day.  The judge chooses the winning order of the best sheep, as defined by the Swiss standard and the judge's eye.  

GRADING is anonymous—the sheep are assigned a number & tagged; show helpers handle them. Grading is done before the show. Only purebreds and F5 and up are eligible for grading.  Each Ram/Ewe is graded against the ideal Swiss breed standard.  The sheep is scored in three categories - appearance (overall structure & proportion, markings), conformation (legs & gait), and, very importantly, the wool.   

The scoring changes depending on the age.  The top score is  (4/4/4) for ages 4-12 months,  (5/5/5) for ages 12-24 months, and (6/6/6) for ages 24-36 months.  Rams or ewes over 36 months of age are no longer eligible for grading.  Upon grading, if the sheep receives the 444 or 555or 666, this is referred to as “Maximum Points”. 

Why do I get my sheep graded?
Serves as Confirmation that an expert has evaluated and verified the quality.  In the USA, this means that Swiss-trained graders have evaluated my sheep.

 The purchase of a ewe or a ram is then an easier decision, and a buyer can be more confident and informed about the quality of the sheep/semen. 

Ultimately, this will improve the quality of Valais Blacknose sheep in the USA, as breeders can choose graded ram semen, rams, and ewes.  These graded sheep will be recognized, and prices will be reflective of  their quality. 

We welcome potential buyers to come and see the sheep in person with a scheduled visit,  call 610-533-0885

Gestation is approximately 5 months,  and lambs stay with their mother until at least 3 months old.