Shrek (sheep) facts for kids
Shrek in November 2008
|
|
| Species | Ovis aries (domestic sheep) |
|---|---|
| Breed | Merino |
| Sex | Male |
| Born | 27 November 1994 New Zealand |
| Died | 6 June 2011 (aged 16) Tarras, Otago, New Zealand |
| Years active | 2004–2011 |
| Known for | Avoiding capture Having grown 60lb of wool |
| Owner | Bendigo Station |
| Named after | Shrek |
Shrek (born November 27, 1994 – died June 6, 2011) was a famous male Merino sheep from New Zealand. He belonged to Bendigo Station, a large farm where sheep are raised, near a town called Tarras. Shrek became famous around the world in 2004 because he managed to hide and avoid getting his wool cut for six years!
Merino sheep usually have their wool cut once a year. But Shrek seemed to hide in caves and avoid the farmers' round-up. He was named after the fictional ogre from the popular books and movies.
Contents
Shrek's Amazing Discovery
After six years of hiding, Shrek was finally caught on April 15, 2004. He had grown a huge amount of wool! On April 28, a professional sheep shearer (someone who cuts wool) cut Shrek's fleece in just 20 minutes. This special event was even shown live on national television in New Zealand.
How Much Wool Did Shrek Have?
Shrek's fleece was incredibly big. It weighed 27 kilograms (about 60 pounds)! That's enough wool to make about 20 large men's suits. To give you an idea, an average Merino sheep's fleece weighs around 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds). Even very large fleeces are usually only up to 15 kilograms (33 pounds). Shrek's wool was truly special!
Shrek Becomes a National Hero
Shrek became a very popular animal in New Zealand. He was seen as a symbol of the country.
Meeting the Prime Minister
In May 2004, Shrek traveled to the country's parliament building. There, he met Helen Clark, who was the Prime Minister of New Zealand at the time. This meeting was part of a celebration for Shrek's 10th birthday.
Shearing on an Iceberg
Shrek had another public shearing event in November 2006. This was about two and a half years after his first famous haircut. This time, he was shorn on an actual iceberg! The iceberg was floating off the coast of Dunedin, a city in New Zealand.
Shrek's Later Life
Shrek lived a long life for a sheep. On June 6, 2011, he was put to sleep based on advice from a veterinarian. He was 16 years old. Shrek is remembered as a unique and beloved animal from New Zealand.
See also
- Agriculture in New Zealand
- Chris – another sheep who grew a lot of wool in Australia
- Fiona – a similar sheep story from Scotland
