Shetland Sheep originated on the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland and the roots for this breed probably go back over a thousand years to sheep brought to the islands by Viking settlers. Having survived for centuries under harsh conditions and on a meager diet, they maintain desirable characteristics including natural hardiness, thriftiness, and are know to lamb easily. The smallest of the British breeds of sheep, the animals are primairly raised primarily for their beautiful wool. Shetland wool is considered one of the finest and softest of any British breed, with a Bradford count usually in the upper 50's to lower 60's and an average fiber diamerter of 23 microns.