"The Shear Necessity: Why We Harvest Fiber from Animals"

Fiber animals, such as sheep, Angora goats, alpacas, and rabbits have fleeces that continuously grow throughout their lives. Unlike wild animals, which naturally shed their coats seasonally, domesticated fiber animals have been selectively bred to produce high-quality, dense, and long fibers. This selective breeding has resulted in fleeces that do not naturally shed and therefore require regular shearing to manage their growth.

Here are the key reasons why shearing is essential:

Prevent Overheating

Temperature Regulation: The dense, thick fleeces of fiber animals provide excellent insulation, which is beneficial during colder months. However, as the seasons change and temperatures rise, these animals can become overheated if their fleeces are not removed. Shearing helps regulate their body temperature and prevents heat stress.

woman shearing angora goat with clippers — Shearing Angora Goat

Maintain Hygiene and Health

Reduce Dirt and Debris: Fleeces can trap dirt, feces, and other debris, leading to poor hygiene and potential health issues such as skin infections.
Prevent Parasite Infestations: A thick, unshorn fleece provides an ideal environment for parasites like lice and mites. Regular shearing reduces the risk of infestations and associated skin problems.

Sheared Angora goat — Sheared Angora Goat

Prevent Matting and Discomfort

Avoid Matting: Over time, the continuous growth of the fleece can lead to matting, which is uncomfortable for the animal and can restrict movement. Mats can also cause skin irritation and sores.
Ease of Movement: A heavy, matted fleece can weigh the animal down and impede its natural movement. Shearing alleviates this burden, allowing the animal to move freely and comfortably.

sheep with overgrown fleece — Lost Sheep in Australia found with Overgrown Fleece

Promote Healthy Fiber Growth

Stimulate New Growth: Shearing removes old, damaged fibers, making way for new, healthy growth. This not only improves the quality of the fleece but also increases the yield of usable fiber.
Seasonal Shearing: By timing shearing to coincide with the animal’s natural growth cycle, farmers can ensure that the fleece is at its best quality and the animal remains comfortable.

Animal Welfare and Ethical Practices

Prevent Wool Blindness: In some breeds, excessive wool growth around the face can impair vision. Shearing around the eyes ensures that the animal can see clearly.
Prevent Flystrike: Especially in sheep, a thick fleece can attract flies that lay eggs, leading to painful maggot infestations. Regular shearing minimizes this risk and protects the animal from this distressing condition.

two white lambs after shearing — Healthy Lambs After Shearing

Shearing is a crucial practice for fiber animals due to the continuous growth of their fleeces. Regular shearing ensures the animals remain healthy, comfortable, and free from potential health issues associated with unshorn fleeces. It also allows for the production of high-quality fiber, which is essential for the textile industry. By shearing fiber animals, farmers and breeders maintain the well-being of the animals while supporting sustainable and ethical fiber production.

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