386 
Agriculture of the Scilly Isles. 
Sheep. — An interestino^ and picturesque, but far from useful, 
breed of sheep runs half-wild upon the downs, where it has 
existed, we were told, since " the beginning of the world." 
Woodley says they resemble a breed in the Western Isles of 
Scotland. 
Their white heads, straight thin noses, short ears, and small 
bright eyes give them an appearance of vivacity and self-satis- 
faction quite the reverse of sheepish. Their low shoulders and 
narrow chests are only surpassed in shapelessness by their 
scraggy necks. Their other features are crooked backs, weak 
loins, high pelvis, small abdomens, long tendinous legs, ragged 
tails, and loose shining wool. Altogether, such qualifications 
admirably adapt them for a goat-like existence among their 
native rocks. 
It is not surprising that, with such an unimproved breed, 
farmers should find sheep more troublesome and less profitable 
than cattle. They are, nevertheless, a prolific breed ; but a 
large number of the lambs die through neglect. 
To prevent them straying or jumping over walls, it is the 
practice to tie one of their fore legs to the corresponding hind 
one — a barbarous custom which gives the animals much unne- 
cessary pain and inconvenience. 
A few South Downs are also kept. 
Sheep intended for the butcher are put upon the better pastures 
and have a few roots thrown to them. They are not folded on 
turnips, nor do they receive hay or artificial food. 
A common dead weight is 8 to 10 lbs. per quarter. When 
more than ordinary care has been used in feeding it may be as 
much as 12 or 15 lbs. per quarter. 
Sheep are not washed before being shorn. Their fleeces weigh 
from 4 to 5 lbs. each. In 1859 this unwashed sandy wool was 
sold at the rate of l^d. to Sd. per lb. Much of it is, however, 
retained for home use, being woven into clothes by the women. 
Pigs, Sfc. — A sufficient number of pigs, of no particular breed, 
are kept for home consumption. 
In 1822 there were "hogs in great number, fed on sea-weed, 
limpets, (Sec, which gave the flesh a disagreeable redness and a 
fishy taste."* Latterly their food has improved. They now get 
mangolds, soaked barley, and at times a few potatoes. 
A good many geese are reared on St. Mary's. There are a few 
rabbits on most of the islands. 
The proprietor uses Sampson as a deer park ; he has also 
stocked it with partridges. 
The farmers of Scilly are not troubled with rooks. 
* Woodley on the Scilly Isles (1822). 
