Scotland's breeding sheep numbers drop to lowest level on record

The number of breeding sheep in Scotland has dropped to its lowest level on record, according to a new report from the National Sheep Association (NSA).

Figures show there are now just under 2.5 million breeding sheep across the country – a significant decline that’s raised alarm among those in the sector.

“We’ve never seen these numbers before,” said Peter Myles, chair of the NSA.

“We looked right back through the data and found dips around the world wars and again in 2001 during the foot and mouth outbreak – but today’s figures show a long-term decline of around half a million over the last 125 years.”

The fall in numbers has been particularly stark in Scotland’s hills and uplands.

Over the past decade alone, around 50,000 breeding ewes have disappeared from these more remote areas.

The NSA points to a number of factors behind the trend – including labour shortages and rising costs – but says the biggest pressures are coming from carbon offsetting and rewilding projects.

Gregor Ingram, a sheep farmer in Aberdeenshire, told STV News: “The land being bought up for carbon offsetting tends to be in marginal areas like the Highlands.

“Where land used to go to farming, it’s now going to industries with much deeper pockets. This is a fantastic sector, but it’s physically and mentally tough.”

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie says the government recognises the challenges and is working to support the industry:

“We’re maintaining direct payments to support food production and ensure stability for both the sector and rural communities,” he said.

“That includes support through the Less Favoured Areas and Upland Sheep Support schemes.”

Despite the downturn, there are signs of hope.

Mr Myles says there’s still interest from the next generation:

“We know a lot of passionate young people who want to be part of this industry,” he said.

“But until there’s more confidence in the sector – and until policy reflects that – it’s going to remain a struggle.”