Farmers at the head of Swaledale, including those in Keld and Thwaite, report that despite a sharp ground frost of -3°C this morning, survival rates for the iconic "Swaledale" breed are at a five-year high. Ewes have been moved to lower, sheltered "mewith" pastures. Local vets are praising the "maternal instincts" of the breed, noting that very few lambs have required indoor warming crates this season.
Source: Richmondshire Today
Swaledale Lambing: The "Frosty Start" Success
06 April 2026
Resilience in the high fells as the lambing peak arrives.