The winter storms have brought cold temperatures, rain, and mud to the sanctuary, and we are very much looking forward to spring. Straw has been out of stock at our normal suppliers, so we were delighted to get a visit from a lovely family who dropped off bales of straw, ensuring that all the animals are staying cosy with plenty of warm dry bedding. Our hay stocks are also running low, as we are feeding out hay to all the goats and cows now. We'd love to hear from you if you find any sources of sweet hay in the Ōtaki area at a reasonable price!
Our latest arrival is Geep the sheep! A couple found the tiny black and white lamb wandering alone in the bush, and contacted the Black Sheep. Initially they thought he was a goat, and hence the name Geep (Goat-sheep). We are not sure of his breed, but he is definitely a lamb! He took to the bottle with gusto, and is thriving and putting on weight - he's no longer easy to pick up with one arm. Happy, affectionate and playful, Geep has been taking over the hearts of everyone he meets, humans and non-humans alike. Recently he has started exploring the outdoor world, and relishes chewing our herb gardens. He is almost ready to be weaned.
We rescued and reared four tiny fluffy mallard ducklings in June after their mother was killed on the road. They thrived, and we recently released them into the wetland area, where they swam happily away. On fine days, we've been planting new trees, and pruning the established trees. The goats have been enjoying the trimmings (see below), nothing goes to waste at the Black Sheep Animal Sanctuary! We are still looking for a permanent home for the charming little cat we rescued a couple of months ago. Little Puss has been desexed and enjoys cuddles. She gets on well with other cats and dogs - so please get in touch if you know of a loving forever home for her!
We're delighted to welcome a group of regular long term volunteers. So far, our fantastic new Sanctuary Support Crew has been out to the sanctuary three times, and they are proving a tremendous help. Thank you all! More volunteers are very welcome. If you are interested or would like extra information, the Sanctuary crew would love to hear from you:blacksheepcrew@yandex.com
Our fundraising 'Sanctuary Pantry' vegan pies and baking have been selling well at the monthly 'Vegan Vault' market in Wellington. Our most recent creation is the vegan 'Snickers Bar', which has been selling out quickly - so please make sure you come early in order not to miss out.
Our latest arrival is Geep the sheep! A couple found the tiny black and white lamb wandering alone in the bush, and contacted the Black Sheep. Initially they thought he was a goat, and hence the name Geep (Goat-sheep). We are not sure of his breed, but he is definitely a lamb! He took to the bottle with gusto, and is thriving and putting on weight - he's no longer easy to pick up with one arm. Happy, affectionate and playful, Geep has been taking over the hearts of everyone he meets, humans and non-humans alike. Recently he has started exploring the outdoor world, and relishes chewing our herb gardens. He is almost ready to be weaned.
We rescued and reared four tiny fluffy mallard ducklings in June after their mother was killed on the road. They thrived, and we recently released them into the wetland area, where they swam happily away. On fine days, we've been planting new trees, and pruning the established trees. The goats have been enjoying the trimmings (see below), nothing goes to waste at the Black Sheep Animal Sanctuary! We are still looking for a permanent home for the charming little cat we rescued a couple of months ago. Little Puss has been desexed and enjoys cuddles. She gets on well with other cats and dogs - so please get in touch if you know of a loving forever home for her!
We're delighted to welcome a group of regular long term volunteers. So far, our fantastic new Sanctuary Support Crew has been out to the sanctuary three times, and they are proving a tremendous help. Thank you all! More volunteers are very welcome. If you are interested or would like extra information, the Sanctuary crew would love to hear from you:blacksheepcrew@yandex.com
Our fundraising 'Sanctuary Pantry' vegan pies and baking have been selling well at the monthly 'Vegan Vault' market in Wellington. Our most recent creation is the vegan 'Snickers Bar', which has been selling out quickly - so please make sure you come early in order not to miss out.
Little Puss is looking for a home
Sheep treats
Roscoe and friends enjoying blackberry prunings