In The Company of Sheep
Summary
Mark Stephen interviews nature writer Polly Puller about her book *In the Company of Sheep*, exploring how native breeds shape UK heritage and landscapes. They discuss the intelligence of primitive breeds like Shetlands, the decline of the wool industry, and rural challenges including dog attacks and over-tourism. Puller emphasizes the deep cultural bond between farmers and their livestock, arguing for a balanced approach to land management that respects both conservation and traditional farming communities.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship and Turkey travel advertisement
Introduction to Polly Puller and her book on sheep
Polly's Shetland sheep and breeding for character
Childhood passion and the intelligence of primitive breeds
Sheep meat, wool sustainability, and mill closures
Hefted flocks, rewilding, and rural community value
Whole Foods Market advertisement
Book research, tourism impacts, and dog attacks
Common threads among shepherds and personal passion
Shetland community, anecdotes, and podcast outro
Promotion for You're Dead to Me podcast
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