Holtinge Sheep Herd

Anyone who visits the Holtingerveld near Havelte runs the risk of meeting the Holtinger Sheep Herd. From the beautifully situated sheepfold at the Entrance Gate Holtingerveld, the shepherd goes up the heath with the herd almost daily. With his border collies he sends the sheep to the places where grazing is to be done. The sheep thus prevent the heath from turning into forest.

The herd consists of more than 380 purebred Drenthe Heide sheep. Another 300 lambs are added in early spring. The sheep have variegated heads with horns. Those of the rams form a beautiful curl. The breed originated in the time when eighty percent of Drenthe consisted of heath and drifting sand. The small, slender sheep are satisfied with a lean diet of heather, grasses and shrubs.

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