Definition & Meaning of "Boreray"

What is a "Boreray"?

Boreray is a rare breed of small-sized, primitive sheep that originated in the St. Kilda archipelago, a remote group of islands off the coast of Scotland. Boreray sheep are known for their hardiness, adaptability, and unique appearance. They are small in size, with compact bodies, short legs, and distinctive curved horns in both males and females. Their fleece is usually coarse and dense, with a wide range of colors including black, brown, grey, and white. Boreray sheep are known for their ability to graze on rough and rocky terrain and are often used for conservation grazing in areas with challenging grazing conditions. Due to their small size and self-sufficiency, Boreray sheep are well-suited to extensive and low-input farming systems. They are considered a rare and endangered breed, with efforts underway to preserve their genetic diversity and promote their conservation as a valuable part of the cultural and natural heritage of the St. Kilda islands.