Sheep are social and intelligent animals who often are not seen and treated as the individuals they are. So, for the lucky few of us who get to meet them in an environment where they’re free to be themselves, it can be an eye-opening and unique experience—and an adorable one, too.

Here are a few reasons why we love spending time with our sheep friends.

The sheep are known as some of Farm Sanctuary’s most gentle and sensitive residents. Many visitors and staff members say spending time with them is peaceful, meditative, and restorative. It can be a time to be in the moment and reflect on what matters. Above, caregiver Ayla takes a moment with a friend.

We mean they will ask persistently! Just look at William and Sarah, asking Luke for more scratches each time the attention stops. Many of the sweet sheep at Farm Sanctuary actively seek affection from the human friends they trust, and if you stop petting them, they will often gently paw at you for more—or even try to follow if you walk away!

Have you ever watched a cute video of a rabbit chewing? Well, it’s just as adorable to see our sheep residents chow down at feeding time, too. They’ll even climb on top of their hay bales to get the best seat at the table.

Whose heart wouldn’t melt at the sight of Evie sheep snuggling up with her twin lambs Jeanne and Margaretta? Rescued from neglect, Evie gave birth at our New York sanctuary in safety and love.

In animal agriculture, families are routinely separated, but at Farm Sanctuary, when we have the chance to rescue sheep together, we know they deserve to stay together. We do everything we can to keep them that way because moms nurse and care for their lambs, and friends lean on each other for support as they heal from their pasts.