Ventured out of the city yesterday to the New York State Sheep and Wool Fair for a taste of rural idyll. And there was biology everywhere. From the black goat that scored 2.6 for his “reproductives” that then showed off his “reproductive”, to a full on display of the domestically selected variation that forms the argument underlying chapter one of, well, you know that book that was about to enter from stage left 150 years ago.
Many animals yield coats, that, with the aid of needles and friction, can be turned into a nice shawl or toe socks, and many prime specimens were on display here. Alpacas, llama, rabbits, goats (cashmere yielding!) and sheep in many forms and varieties. And a lot of breeding related discussion. I was surprised when an alpaca breeder told us that alpaca/llama hybrids (there were some on display) are fertile! The male llamas also went a little crazy when some females were led by. There were also signs certifying some sheep as “Excellent”, “Good” or “Unacceptable” for true breeding. One of the unacceptables was understandably a bit out of control. Judging was also slightly demystified, as the judge explained how three beautifully glossy-coated black-haired goats differed in the flatness of their backs, their hindquarters and coats and discussed their fleece yields. I’ve also been reading lately about James Hutton, and his inspiration on his own farm (with respect to geology). I missed the pumpkin trebuchet, so can’t mention the physics of flinging a pumpkin as far and accurately as possible, but down on the farm it seems like biology, and indeed other sciences, stare you in the face oftentimes.
Hm. I was at a farm on the weekend that had both sheep and pumpkins, but sadly no trebuchet.
Interesting regarding the llama/alpaca hybrids… doesn’t this fly in the face of the idea that they’re separate species (by definition?). I remember thinking the same thing after reading The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill, where fertile F1 progeny of mitred- and cherry-headed conures were observed. Same idea, different species, fertile hybrid offspring.
With a little modification, I’m sure the trebuchet could be used to fling a
cowpiano .lol Ken, that was hilarious. I didn’t ever see Northern Exposure, but am now intrigued…
What’s a self-respecting farm without a piano/pumpkin flinging trebuchet?
Richard- I wondered the same thing. I actually dare anybody to sort out a pen-full of alpaca and llama/ alpaca hybrids (llalpacas?! They sound like me!). I’ll investigate the genetics a bit more.
I love the The wild parrots of telegraph hill.
Many animals yield coats, that, with the aid of needles and friction, can be turned into a nice shawl or toe socks, and many prime specimens were on display here
As a person who frequently turns a variety of natural fibers into scarves, socks, and sweaters, I would love to attend the Rhinebeck festival some day. Though perhaps I should be grateful that my teaching schedule disallows it … I’d probably spend too much money, and come home with a spinning wheel and more fiber than I could spin/knit/crochet in a lifetime. ;-)
Thanks for the report, Sabbi!
I did indeed come home with an armful of yarn (no projects in mind yet though, I’m still trying to wind it into untangled balls).
I’m still trying to wind it into untangled balls
You need a ball winder and a swift (or someone willing to act as one) for that job, Sabbi. Best Luddite investment I’ve made in the past few years.