Info point 11
The most cuddly guests on the Gornergrat – our Blacknose sheep
In summer, a herd of Blacknose sheep grazes on the Gornergrat. There are around 125 Blacknoses out and about – mostly in the shade, as it is too hot for them in the sun due to their fluffy coat. But no matter where the sheep currently are on the mountain, as soon as the herd enters the Gornergrat area, you can see them in the wild. You can use GPS tracking to find the woolly sheep. To ensure that the Blacknose sheep are not out and about alone, a shepherd accompanies them on their adventures around the Gornergrat.
Characteristic of Blacknose sheep are the black parts on their nose, eyes, ears, front knee and feet. The entire body of the Blacknose sheep is completely covered with wool, including their legs and face. An important feature is the quality of the wool, whereby the most beautiful sheep have clearly visible, twisted curls. All Blacknose sheep, both male and female, have horns, and you can estimate their approximate age by the size of their horns. On average, they reach an age of 12 to 14 years. Blacknose sheep are typical of Upper Valais and are often kept in family breeding that has existed for several generations. They are particularly popular in the Mattertal valley because the steep slopes provide a good habitat for them and they require little grass/flowers. Their ability to adapt to the conditions in the high mountains makes them perfect for life on the Alpine pastures.
