Rare European mouflon lambs born at New Forest Wildlife Park

Mouflon live in small herds which are led by an older ewe, with rams often forming separate groups outside of the October/November rutting season. Credit: New Forest Wildlife Park

Five rare European mouflon lambs have been born at the New Forest Wildlife Park in Hampshire.

Arriving on the 5th, 9th and 11th April, the lambs are a result of the park's conservation of the wild sheep species.

Adam Ford, Animal Manager at the New Forest Wildlife Park, said: "We're incredibly excited to welcome these new mouflon lambs.

"As one of only two UK collections to showcase mouflon, we play an important role in educating the public about this fascinating species and contributing to their ongoing conservation."

Arriving on the 5th, 9th and 11th April, the lambs are a result of the park's conservation of the wild sheep species. Credit: New Forest Wildlife Park

European mouflon are native to the Mediterranean islands and were introduced across Europe for hunting.

Now well-established, they offer a glimpse into the history of domestic livestock and the delicate balance between introduced species and native ecosystems.

The park's herd currently consists of one ram, four ewes, and their new lambs.

The ram has impressive curly horns, a sign of maturity and dominance, while the ewes typically have smaller horns or none at all.

The park's herd currently consists of one ram, four ewes, and their new lambs. Credit: New Forest Wildlife Park

Mouflon live in small herds which are led by an older ewe, with rams often forming separate groups outside of the October/November rutting season.

After a five-month gestation period, ewes give birth to one or two lambs in March/April, nursing them for about six months.

While the IUCN classifies European mouflon as feral, the New Forest Wildlife Park recognises their educational value and actively participates in breeding programs.

Threats like habitat loss, poaching, and disease transmission from domestic livestock highlight the need for ongoing conservation efforts.

European mouflon are native to the Mediterranean islands and were introduced across Europe for hunting. Credit: New Forest Wildlife Park

Fourteen lambs were born at the New Forest Wildlife Park in April 2022.

Jenn Rawson, Keeper at the New Forest Wildlife Park, said: "By showcasing mouflon, we can educate our visitors about the challenges facing wild sheep populations and the importance of responsible wildlife management.

"It's heartwarming to see our herd expanding and know we're making a difference."

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