Look at those horns

Valais Blacknose sheep tend to have circular or helical horns. Hunter (pictured) is six months old and already growing impressive helical ones. I believe when they are younger, the horns are more brittle, getting stronger over time. It's acceptable in the society to have black lines running through them but with them being so sensitive, not to touch them for the first twelve months. I find if I try to stroke them between the horns they tend to pull away but a good chin scratch is always welcome.

Although horns can look quite scary, I don't find the Valais's using them particularly and only notice them grazing my leg when the flock are sneaking up looking for food. I will post a progress shot at 12 months and compare the changes.