However, this official recognition did not prevent these indigenous breeds from running the risk of extinction. At the time, the only breeds of sheep that were defined as such were the Lötschental, the Roux de Bagnes and the Nez Noir. In 1884, a cantonal ordinance explicitly mentions the “pecora nez noir di Viège” for the first time.
However, it is impossible to specify this exact breed before the 19th century. The first time this breed is mentioned dates back to the 15th century. They easily climb the steepest slopes and rocks, it is the environment that their ancestors have become acclimatized to over many years. The Nez Noir is a resistant species, it is very suitable for the extreme climatic conditions of the Valais mountains, thanks to its strong build and thick wool. One sheep produces around 4 kilograms of wool per year (in 2 shears). Their mouth, ears, knees, ankles and hooves are black. Their head and legs are covered with a long and thick white wool, whereas most sheep will only have wool on their bodies. An adult female weighs between 70 and 90 kilograms and the males weigh between 80 and 120 kilograms.
There are only two types of sheep breeds with Swiss horns, the Roux du Valais and the Valais Nez Noir.īoth sexes have these spiral horns.
As the name suggests, it is a sheep that has a black face. The Nez Noir is a sheep breed originating from the canton of Valais, more precisely from the Upper Valais area.
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